Angina pectoris from an unexpected cause
K R Bennett1, L H Brandon, F T Bennett
1Jackson Heart Clinic, P.A., MS 39216, USA.
Journal of the Mississippi State Medical Association
|January 7, 1998
Insights
A rare cardiac angiosarcoma, initially misidentified on a chest film, caused coronary atherosclerosis and angina pectoris in a 53-year-old man. This case highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis for cardiac tumors and their long-term cardiovascular impact.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- Coronary atherosclerosis is a leading cause of angina pectoris.
- Cardiac tumors are rare and can present with diverse symptoms.
- Diagnostic imaging plays a crucial role in identifying cardiac abnormalities.
Observation:
- A 53-year-old male presented with classical angina pectoris.
- Thirty-two years prior, a chest film showed an abnormality described as a "prominence of the upper portion of the left cardiac border."
- This "prominence" was later identified as an angiosarcoma.
Findings:
- The angiosarcoma compromised blood flow within the left coronary system.
- The tumor's long-standing presence suggests a slow-growing nature or delayed diagnosis.
- The patient's angina was attributed to the tumor-induced coronary compromise.
Implications:
- This case underscores the critical need for vigilant interpretation of imaging findings, even subtle ones.
- Delayed diagnosis of cardiac angiosarcoma can lead to severe cardiovascular complications.
- Accurate and timely diagnosis of cardiac tumors is essential for effective management and improved patient outcomes.
Abstract:
A 53 year-old-man developed classical angina pectoris, presumably the result of coronary atherosclerosis. Thirty-two years before, an abnormality on a chest film had been described as a "prominence of the upper portion of the left cardiac border." The "prominence" was actually an angiosarcoma, which eventually compromised blood flow in the left coronary system.
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