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Pericardial synovial sarcoma presenting with large recurrent pericardial effusion
Hyo Chul Youn1, Yangyoun Lee1, Soo-Cheol Kim1
1Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Kyung Hee University Medical Center, Seoul, Korea.
Journal of Thoracic Disease
|June 14, 2016
Summary
Primary pericardial synovial sarcoma, a rare cancer, often presents with fluid around the heart. This case highlights how systemic symptoms can delay diagnosis of this aggressive pericardial tumor.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Pathology
- Oncology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Primary pericardial synovial sarcoma is an exceptionally rare malignancy with a poor prognosis.
- Typical presentation involves significant pericardial effusion, cardiac tamponade, and a visible pericardial mass on echocardiography.
Observation:
- Systemic symptoms like fever, cough, and night sweats can mimic other conditions, potentially masking an underlying pericardial mass.
- A 34-year-old patient experienced recurrent pericardial effusion and fever for two years.
Findings:
- Delayed diagnosis occurred due to the absence of a clear pericardial mass on initial imaging.
- A two-year follow-up echocardiography ultimately led to the diagnosis of primary pericardial synovial sarcoma.
Implications:
- Recognizing systemic symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis of rare pericardial tumors.
- This case underscores the importance of persistent investigation in cases of unexplained recurrent pericardial effusion.
- Enhanced diagnostic vigilance may improve outcomes for patients with primary pericardial synovial sarcoma.
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