Papillary Fibroelastoma in Differential Diagnosis of Left Atrial Appendage Masses

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Pathology
• Oncology
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Papillary fibroelastomas are typically benign cardiac tumors originating from valve endocardium.
• Differential diagnosis of cardiac masses is crucial for appropriate management.

Observation:

• Two patients presented with left atrial appendage masses initially diagnosed as thrombus.
• Patients received treatment for embolic stroke, with symptom resolution.
• Left atrial appendage masses persisted despite stroke treatment.

Findings:

• Surgical resection and histologic analysis confirmed papillary fibroelastoma in both cases.
• Papillary fibroelastoma can mimic cardiac thrombus, leading to diagnostic challenges.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering rare cardiac tumors in the differential diagnosis of cardiac masses.
• Discusses diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in managing papillary fibroelastomas.
• Emphasizes the need for accurate diagnosis to guide appropriate treatment strategies for cardiac masses.