Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 16, 2026
02:34
Author Spotlight: Efficacy of Auricular Pressure Bean Therapy in Reducing Wheezing Symptoms
Published on: May 10, 2024
2.2K
An unusual case of refractory wheeze
Venkat Ramesh1, Vishak Acharya2, Narasimha Pai3
1Internal Medicine, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Karnataka, India.
BMJ Case Reports
|March 4, 2015
Summary
A 37-year-old man experienced persistent wheezing due to a rare left atrial myxoma, initially misdiagnosed as tuberculosis. Surgical removal of the cardiac tumor led to a full recovery, highlighting an unusual cause of respiratory symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pulmonology
- Oncology
Background:
- Persistent wheezing and breathlessness can stem from various underlying conditions.
- Bronchial cytology positive for acid-fast bacilli can lead to a diagnosis of tuberculosis.
Observation:
- A 37-year-old male presented with a 3-year history of refractory wheezing and breathlessness.
- Initial diagnosis of tuberculosis based on positive bronchial cytology was treated for 6 months without improvement.
- Persistent symptoms, cardiac findings (loud S1, mid-diastolic murmur), and CT scan revealed a left atrial myxoma.
Findings:
- Left atrial myxoma can present atypically with respiratory symptoms like wheezing.
- Bronchial cytology may yield false positives, necessitating comprehensive diagnostic evaluation.
- Echocardiography is crucial for diagnosing cardiac tumors like myxoma.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering rare cardiac pathologies in patients with refractory respiratory symptoms.
- Diagnostic algorithms for persistent wheezing should include cardiac evaluation.
- Early detection and surgical intervention for left atrial myxoma ensure favorable outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Asthma-III: Symptoms and Complications
3.7K
Asthma, a common chronic respiratory condition, is classified considering the frequency and severity of symptoms alongside lung function impairment. Understanding this classification is essential for appropriate treatment and management. Here's a detailed look at the classification of asthma and its clinical features and complications:
Classification of Asthma
Classification of Asthma
3.7K
01:26Asthma-II: Pathophysiology and Classification
5.0K
Asthma is a prevalent chronic respiratory condition marked by inflammation and hyperresponsiveness of the airways. Its pathophysiology involves complex interactions among inflammatory pathways, immune responses, and neural mechanisms.
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include:
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include:
5.0K
01:17Pulmonary Cycle: Exhalation
5.2K
In terms of human respiration, the act of expelling air, known as exhalation (or expiration), operates on the principle of pressure gradients. During expiration, the pressure within the lungs exceeds that of the surrounding atmosphere. Under normal conditions, quiet breathing involves passive exhalation and is free of muscular contractions. This is because the exhalation process is driven by the natural elastic recoil of the lungs and chest wall, both of which have an inherent tendency to...
5.2K
01:20Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management
1.7K
Asthma is a chronic pulmonary condition involving inflammation of the airways, hyper-reactivity, and reversible obstruction of the airways. This condition can significantly impact a person's quality of life, making breathing difficult and leading to distressing symptoms.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
1.7K
01:30Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management
3.4K
The diagnosis and management of asthma are comprehensive, encompassing clinical assessments, lung function tests, and pharmacological interventions. Here's an overview:
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
3.4K
01:29Asthma-I: Introduction
3.8K
Asthma is a chronic respiratory ailment that requires careful management due to its varying symptoms and influencing factors. It is characterized by airway inflammation, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, and reversible airflow obstruction, leading to symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. The symptom frequency and intensity may vary considerably over time. It is also linked to immune system responses to allergens and irritants, highlighting the complex...
3.8K