Cerebral Metastases in Patients with Left Atrial Myxoma

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Neurology
• Oncology

Background:

• Cardiac myxomas are rare primary tumors of the heart.
• Cerebral metastases from cardiac myxomas are an uncommon presentation.
• Understanding this metastatic potential is crucial for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report two cases of cardiac myxoma with cerebral metastases.
• To review existing literature on cardiac myxoma with brain involvement.
• To enhance awareness of this rare oncological and neurological complication.

Main Methods:

• Case report of two patients diagnosed with cardiac myxoma and subsequent cerebral metastases.
• Comprehensive literature review of similar cases.
• Analysis of clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, and treatment outcomes.

Main Results:

• Two cases of cardiac myxoma presenting with neurological symptoms due to brain metastases are detailed.
• Literature review identified a limited number of similar cases, confirming the rarity.
• Metastatic spread to the brain represents a significant challenge in cardiac myxoma management.

Conclusions:

• Cardiac myxomas, though rare, possess the potential for systemic metastasis, including to the brain.
• Cerebral metastases from cardiac myxomas require prompt diagnosis and multidisciplinary management.
• Further research into the metastatic mechanisms and optimal treatment strategies is warranted.