Isolated Right Atrial Mass in a Candidate of Coronary Bypass Grafting

Feridoun Sabzi1, Aghigh Heidari2, Reza Faraji1

  • 1Kermanshah Cardiovascular Research Centre, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.

Acta Medica Iranica
|January 9, 2018
PubMed

Insights

This case study highlights a rare instance of isolated right atrial metastasis from hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in a patient with coronary artery disease (CAD). The successful combined surgical treatment demonstrates a viable approach for managing this complex presentation.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Oncology
  • Surgical Pathology

Background:

  • Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) frequently metastasizes, but intra-atrial metastasis is exceptionally rare.
  • Coronary artery disease (CAD) often coexists with HCC, presenting complex management challenges for cardiac surgeons.

Observation:

  • A patient with known HCC and CAD presented with chest pain overshadowing abdominal symptoms.
  • Echocardiography revealed a large right atrial mass, distinct from typical HCC-related thrombus.
  • The patient underwent successful combined resection of the right atrial mass and off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

Findings:

  • This case represents an isolated, sole metastasis to the right atrium from HCC, a highly unusual finding.
  • The patient experienced an uneventful postoperative recovery and was discharged within 10 days.
  • Six-month follow-up showed no recurrence after completion of hepatic lobectomy and adjuvant chemotherapy.

Implications:

  • Combined surgical intervention can be effective for rare cases of HCC with isolated right atrial metastasis.
  • Early detection and multidisciplinary management are crucial for improving outcomes in patients with coexisting HCC and CAD.
  • This case expands the understanding of HCC metastatic patterns and the surgical possibilities in complex oncological scenarios.

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