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Cardiac Magnetic Resonance for the Evaluation of Suspected Cardiac Thrombus: Conventional and Emerging Techniques
Published on: June 11, 2019
Spindle cell sarcoma of the left atrium: an extremely rare and challenging tumour often masquerading as left atrial
Naji Kholaif1, Blair J O'Neill1
1Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Abstract:
Spindle-cell sarcoma of the left atrium is an extremely rare diagnosis, with only 4 cases reported in the literature worldwide. We report on a 42-year-old man, who presented to the emergency department with dyspnea and decreased exercise tolerance. A computed tomography chest scan showed a large mass in the left atrium. Echocardiography demonstrated a significant gradient across the mitral valve. The patient had the mass excised in the operating room. He did well postoperatively. Eight months later, a repeat cardiac magnetic resonance imaging scan showed a recurrence. Right pneumonectomy was performed to ensure margins were clear. Although he has done well after surgery, his prognosis remains guarded.
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