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Malignant cardiac fibrous histiocytomas and angiosarcomas: MR features
1Division of Diagnostic Imaging, University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston 77030.
Insights
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) reveals distinct features of rare malignant heart tumors. This study details MRI findings for malignant fibrous histiocytoma and angiosarcoma, aiding in diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Imaging
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- Primary cardiac tumors are uncommon, with a significant proportion being malignant.
- Accurate characterization of malignant cardiac neoplasms is crucial for patient management.
Observation:
- This study presents magnetic resonance (MR) features of malignant fibrous histiocytoma and angiosarcoma.
- Two cases of malignant fibrous histiocytoma and three of angiosarcoma were analyzed, alongside a literature review.
Findings:
- Malignant fibrous histiocytoma showed intermediate T1 and high T2 signal intensity in the left atrium.
- Angiosarcomas, primarily in the right heart, exhibited varied heterogeneous signals and a 'cauliflower' appearance with potential thrombosis or hemorrhage.
Implications:
- Magnetic resonance imaging provides detailed anatomical information for characterizing malignant cardiac tumors.
- Understanding specific MR signal characteristics aids in differentiating and diagnosing these rare malignancies.
- Advanced imaging is vital for surgical planning and prognosis assessment of cardiac tumors.
Abstract:
Primary tumors of the heart are rare, and one-third of them are malignant. The magnetic resonance (MR) features, their specificity, and significance in two patients with malignant fibrous histiocytoma and three patients with angiosarcoma are presented and the literature briefly reviewed. Malignant fibrous histiocytoma occurred in the left atrium and demonstrated slightly heterogeneous intermediate signal intensity on T1-weighted images and high signal intensity on T2-weighted images. The angiosarcomas involving primarily the right heart were more varied in MR appearance with heterogeneous signals. The extensive angiosarcomas almost circumferentially involving the epicardium and pericardium showed the "cauliflower" appearance with focal areas of increased signal intensity probably related to thrombosis or hemorrhage. Magnetic resonance provided detailed anatomic information and characterization of malignant cardiac tumors.