Diagnosis of left atrial tumors by coronary angiography and left ventriculography

The left ventriculograms and pulmonary and coronary angiograms of eight patients with left atrial (LA) tumors were reviewed. The patients' ages ranged from 52 to 65 years. In each case the tumor was outlined during left ventriculography. Coronary arteriography allowed visualization of tumor vessels in six cases (six of seven myxomas). Two of the patients had significant coronary obstructions. It is concluded that a left ventriculogram is a sensitive diagnostic test for the presence of LA tumors. Coronary arteriography is indicated in patients with LA tumors in this age group and is likely to provide independent evidence of the presence of an LA tumor.