Ischemic Stroke Secondary to Left Atrial Papillary Fibroelastoma: A Report of a Rare Case

Cardiac papillary fibroelastoma (PFE) is a rare benign cardiac tumor that typically arises on valvular endocardium and carries the potential for serious complications despite its non-malignant nature. We present a case of an elderly patient with a PFE in an unusual location, leading to stroke. The patient's history, diagnostic workup, surgical management, and outcomes are detailed. This case is noteworthy due to the tumor's atypical left atrial location, an exceedingly rare site, and its presentation as an acute ischemic stroke. In the context of this case, we discuss the clinical significance of PFEs, including their epidemiology, pathology, differential diagnosis, and management strategies. This case underlines the need for vigilance in detecting cardiac sources of emboli in stroke patients and supports early surgical excision of PFEs when feasible to avert potentially life-threatening sequelae.