SHM Converge Scientific Abstract ePoster Gallery-Left Atrial Myxoma

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This case report describes a 78-year-old woman with atrial fibrillation on chronic anticoagulation who presented with intermittent left-sided chest pain, one month of exertional fatigue, and dyspnea. On exam, she had a diastolic rumble at the left lower sternal border. Because of her symptoms and an elevated D-dimer, pulmonary embolism was initially suspected, but CT angiography ruled this out and unexpectedly identified a large left atrial mass.<br /><br />Further evaluation with echocardiography confirmed a left atrial myxoma measuring 7.5 x 4.4 cm. The tumor partially obstructed left ventricular inflow and caused functional mitral stenosis. Cardiac catheterization showed normal coronary arteries, and the patient was referred for surgical excision of the mass. After successful resection, she improved symptomatically and was discharged on metoprolol, Lasix, and Eliquis, with follow-up planned to monitor for recurrence.<br /><br />The report also reviews cardiac myxomas as rare benign tumors that can present with constitutional symptoms, embolic events, or intracardiac obstruction. They may appear as polypoid or papillary lesions, with polypoid tumors more likely to cause obstruction and papillary tumors more prone to embolization. Echocardiography is the preferred diagnostic test, typically showing a mobile atrial mass attached to the interatrial septum by a stalk. Surgical removal is usually curative and carries a low operative risk.<br /><br />Overall, the case highlights the need to consider cardiac myxoma in patients with unexplained cardiopulmonary symptoms, especially when more common causes such as pulmonary embolism are excluded. Early diagnosis and prompt surgery are key to symptom relief and favorable outcomes.

Asset Subtitle

Bareera Akhtar

Meta Tag

Author List Bareera Akhtar

Category Clinical Vignettes

Concept Left Atrial Myxoma

Concept Echocardiography

Concept Surgical Excision

Concept Follow-up

Concept Obstructive Symptoms

Distinguished Non-Finalist

Presenter Organization University of Texas Rio Grand Valley

Presenting Author Bareera Akhtar

Track Adult

Keywords

atrial myxoma

left atrial mass

cardiac tumor

atrial fibrillation

echocardiography

functional mitral stenosis

pulmonary embolism

dyspnea

surgical excision

intracardiac obstruction

Left Atrial Myxoma

Echocardiography

Surgical Excision

Follow-up

Obstructive Symptoms