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Published on: February 22, 2018
The neurological aspects of atrial myxoma
Insights
This study highlights two rare cases of left atrial myxoma, emphasizing echocardiography
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
Background:
- Left atrial myxoma is a rare cardiac tumor.
- Historically diagnosed postmortem, advancements have improved detection.
Observation:
- Two cases of left atrial myxoma presented to a neurological unit.
- Echocardiography proved crucial in evaluating stroke patients, particularly young individuals or those with multiple lesions.
- One case presented unusual electrocardiographic changes linked to altered consciousness.
Findings:
- Echocardiography and cine-angiography enable effective diagnosis and treatment of cardiac myxomas.
- Early detection of left atrial myxoma can prevent severe neurological sequelae.
Implications:
- Increased clinical awareness of left atrial myxoma is vital for timely diagnosis.
- Echocardiography should be considered in the routine assessment of stroke patients, especially in specific demographics.
- Further investigation into ECG changes associated with altered consciousness in myxoma cases is warranted.
Abstract:
2 cases of left atrial myxoma are presented, with a review of the recent literature on the topic, in order to bring this rare condition to the attention of clinicians. Both cases presented to the Neurological Unit of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital during 1978. The cases helped to emphasise the role of echocardiography in the routine appraisal of the stroke patient, especially if there are multiple lesions or if the patient concerned is young. The second case raised interseting questions regarding electrocardiographic changes associated with altered states of consiousness. Until recently cardiac myxomas were usually a postmortem diagnosis, but now with the effective combination of echocardiography and cine-angiography, cases are being effectively diagnosed and treated. It is hoped that with an increased awareness of the condition, diagnosis will be made sooner and thus prevent more severe sequelae occuring.
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