Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 7, 2026

Murine Fetal Echocardiography
Published on: February 15, 2013
Sudden Death in a Child Revealing a Multifocal Cardiac Fibroma: A Hidden Lethal Threat
Achref Miry1,2, Mohammed Tbouda3,4, Kenza Oqbani2,5
1Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Agadir, Agadir, MAR.
Insights
A rare multifocal cardiac fibroma caused sudden death in a child. This case highlights the silent, lethal potential of these benign heart tumors and the need for early detection in pediatric populations.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Cardiac Pathology
- Oncology
Background:
- Cardiac fibromas, despite benign histology, pose significant risks including arrhythmias and sudden death.
- Pediatric cardiac tumors are rare but can have severe consequences.
Abstract:
Despite their benign histology, cardiac fibromas can cause life-threatening complications, including arrhythmias and sudden death. We report the case of a previously healthy four-year-old boy who collapsed suddenly after a minor fall. Despite immediate resuscitation efforts, he was declared dead. Autopsy revealed an enlarged heart with a large, firm, white intramyocardial mass measuring 5.5 × 4.5 × 3.0 cm in the lateral wall of the left ventricle, compressing the ventricular cavity. Three additional epicardial nodules were also identified. Histologic examination showed spindle cell proliferation with dense collagenous stroma, low mitotic activity, and no atypia or necrosis, consistent with multifocal cardiac fibroma. This case illustrates the silent yet potentially lethal nature of cardiac fibromas in children. Multifocal presentation is extremely rare and can remain undiagnosed until sudden death occurs. Awareness of such tumors and early cardiac imaging may help prevent fatal outcomes in pediatric populations.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations
Introduction Cardiac Emergencies
Cardiomyopathy I: Introduction and Classification
Mitral Stenosis II: Clinical features and Diagnostic Tests
Cardiomyopathy IV: Restrictive Cardiomyopathy

