Cardiac Hemangioma Producing Pericardial Effusion Detected on Thoracoscopic Pericardial Fenestration

Takuya Fujita1, Yo Kawaguchi1, Yoko Kataoka1

  • 1Division of General Thoracic Surgery, Kohka Public Hospital, Kohka City, Shiga, Japan; Department of Thoracic Surgery, National University Corporation, Shiga University of Medical Science, Shiga, Japan.

Insights

A massive pericardial effusion in a 76-year-old woman was drained, leading to the incidental discovery of a cardiac tumor. Surgical resection confirmed the tumor as a hemangioma.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Thoracic Surgery
  • Pathology

Background:

  • A 76-year-old female patient presented with dyspnea.
  • Computed tomography revealed a massive pericardial effusion, necessitating percutaneous catheter drainage.
  • Initial investigations for common causes of exudative effusion were inconclusive.

Observation:

  • Thoracoscopic pericardial fenestration was performed for biopsy and long-term drainage.
  • An incidental finding during the procedure was a 2 cm tumor situated between the left atrial appendage and left pulmonary artery.
  • The tumor was attached to the left atrial appendage.

Findings:

  • The tumor was surgically resected.
  • Pathologic examination diagnosed the tumor as a hemangioma.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the importance of thorough examination during procedures for pericardial effusion.
  • It demonstrates the successful diagnosis and treatment of an incidentally discovered cardiac tumor.
  • Pericardial effusion management can lead to unexpected diagnostic opportunities for cardiac masses.

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