Right-ventricular fibroma presenting as tricuspid stenosis--a case report

A male child presented with suspicion of tricuspid stenosis. Echocardiography revealed the presence of a mass arising from the free wall of the right ventricle and causing right-ventricular inflow obstruction but not involving the tricuspid valve. The tumour was excised via right ventriculotomy using cardiopulmonary bypass, resulting in survival and a satisfactory clinical course. Histological examination showed the tumour to be a fibroma. Tricuspid stenosis is an unusual presentation of right ventricular fibroma. Careful examination is essential to early diagnosis of cardiac fibromas, particularly in children with unexplained cardiac problems. Echocardiography is still a good method for confirmation of the diagnosis and for follow-up. In view of the unknown natural history of cardiac fibroma, surgical excision should be undertaken. Early detection and prompt excision results in immediate and complete relief of symptoms and prolongs the life span.