Massive embolization of cardiac myxoma. A case report

A case of left atrial myxoma with massive embolization in a 20-year-old woman is described. The initial clinical picture was confusing, but repeated examinations, including enzyme determinations and arteriographies, disclosed the presence of multiple arterial emboli. At embolectomy, histological investigation of embolic masses showed a picture indicating cardiac myxoma. This diagnosis was confirmed by pulmonary angiography and the tumour was removed. Postischaemic oedema of the legs necessitated decompression operations. The peripheral circulation was restored and the final result was excellent. Some aspects of the clinical presentation of this uncommon disease are discussed.