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Updated: May 17, 2026

High-Resolution Endocardial and Epicardial Optical Mapping in a Sheep Model of Stretch-Induced Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: July 29, 2011
[Primary cardiac leiomyosarcoma originating from the left atrium].
Harumi Nakanishi1, Kojiro Furukawa, Ryo Noguchi
1Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Saga University, Saga, Japan.
Left atrial leiomyosarcoma is a rare cardiac tumor. Despite surgical resection and radiation therapy, this patient experienced recurrence and succumbed to the disease, highlighting the need for improved treatments.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Primary malignant cardiac tumors are rare.
- Leiomyosarcomas of the heart are exceptionally uncommon, posing diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
Observation:
- A 74-year-old male presented with dyspnea and pulmonary congestion.
- Echocardiography identified a large left atrial tumor invading the mitral valve and atrial wall.
Findings:
- Emergency surgery achieved maximal tumor resection, confirmed as leiomyosarcoma.
- Postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy was administered, but early local recurrence was noted.
Implications:
- Cardiac leiomyosarcomas have a very poor prognosis.
- Complete surgical resection and effective adjuvant therapies are crucial for improving outcomes in these rare tumors.
Related Concept Videos
Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
Cardiomyopathy I: Introduction and Classification
Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy IV: Restrictive Cardiomyopathy
Cardiac Catheterization III: Left Heart Catheterization
