Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 1, 2026

Cardiac Magnetic Resonance for the Evaluation of Suspected Cardiac Thrombus: Conventional and Emerging Techniques
Published on: June 11, 2019
[Asymptomatic left ventricular myxoma incidentally diagnosed by echocardiography. Report of one case]
Insights
A calcified left ventricular myxoma was diagnosed in an asymptomatic woman using echocardiography and advanced imaging. Surgical resection with a pericardial patch was successful, highlighting the importance of imaging in cardiac tumor diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiac Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Cardiac tumors are rare, and myxomas are the most common primary cardiac tumors.
- Left ventricular myxomas, though uncommon, require accurate diagnosis for appropriate management.
- Early detection of cardiac tumors is crucial for preventing complications.
Observation:
- A 50-year-old hypertensive, asymptomatic female presented with a left ventricular tumor detected via transthoracic echocardiogram.
- Multimodality imaging, including 3D echocardiography, cardiac MRI, and CT, confirmed a calcified left ventricular myxoma.
Findings:
- The diagnostic accuracy of transthoracic echocardiography in identifying cardiac tumors was reinforced.
- Advanced imaging modalities proved essential for detailed characterization and differential diagnosis of the left ventricular mass.
- Surgical resection via a transaortic, transvalvular approach was performed, with successful tumor removal and reconstruction using a pericardial bovine patch.
Implications:
- This case underscores the critical role of echocardiography as a primary diagnostic tool for cardiac tumors.
- Integrated use of 3D echocardiography, cardiac MRI, and CT enhances diagnostic precision for complex cardiac masses.
- Timely surgical intervention is vital for managing cardiac myxomas and ensuring favorable patient outcomes.
Abstract:
We report a 50 year-old hypertensive and asymptomatic woman in whom a left ventricular tumor was found on a routine two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiogram. Complementary 3D echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance and cardiac computed tomography allowed the diagnosis of a calcified left ventricular myxoma. Surgical treatment was performed through a transaortic transvalvular approach with tumor resection and implantation of a pericardial bovine patch. This case confirms the importance of transthoracic echocardiography in the diagnosis of cardiac tumors and the complementary role of 3D echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography for the differential diagnosis before surgery.
Related Concept Videos
Mitral Stenosis II: Clinical features and Diagnostic Tests
Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Mitral Valve Prolapse II: Assessment and Management
Myocarditis II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
Mitral Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests

