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Published on: June 11, 2019
Prolapsing Left Atrial Mass Presenting as Syncope
Presheet Pathare1, Michael Weyand1, Christian Heim1
1Department of Cardiac Surgery, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany.
Insights
A large left atrial myxoma can cause syncope, a sudden loss of consciousness. Prompt diagnosis using non-invasive imaging is crucial for evaluating cardiac causes of fainting.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Oncology
Background:
- Myxomas are the most common primary cardiac tumors in adults.
- Left atrial location is most frequent, often asymptomatic or presenting with heart failure symptoms.
Observation:
- This case report details syncope caused by a large left atrial myxoma.
- The tumor's size and location contributed to the patient's symptoms.
Findings:
- Atrial myxomas can precipitate transient loss of consciousness.
- Prolapse through atrioventricular valves or embolization are potential mechanisms.
Implications:
- Cardiogenic syncope necessitates thorough evaluation for cardiac tumors.
- Non-invasive tools like echocardiography and CT are vital for diagnosis.
Abstract:
Background Myxomas are the most common primary cardiac tumor in adults and are most commonly found within the left atrium. These are usually asymptomatic, detected incidentally, or present gradually with symptoms typical of heart failure. Case Description This case report is a description of a case of syncope caused by a large left atrial myxoma. Conclusion Atrial myxomas may present with transient loss of consciousness, especially when they prolapse through the atrioventricular valves or when embolization occurs. Non-invasive diagnostic tools (e.g., echocardiogram, cardiac computed tomography) should be considered to thoroughly evaluate cardiogenic causes of syncope.
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