Let's explore the key aspects of atrial myxoma, a rare type of cardiac tumor that originates in the atria.
Despite not knowing exactly what causes atrial myxoma, it is believed to be caused by genetic mutations or abnormalities in the heart tissue that cause abnormal cells to form within the atria. In rare cases, atrial myxomas can occur as a result of genetic disorders like the Carney complex or familial cardiac myxoma syndrome.
There is a wide range of symptoms associated with atrial myxomas, depending on the size, location, and mobility of the tumor within the heart. They may include:
Palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, and irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias) are cardiac symptoms.
Fatigue, dizziness, fainting (syncope), and signs of heart failure such as edema (swelling), orthopnea (difficulty breathing when lying flat), and paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea (sudden shortness of breath at night).
Atrial myxomas can cause embolization of tumor fragments or blood clots, resulting in strokes or peripheral arterial embolisms.
In some individuals with atrial myxomas, fever, weight loss, and malaise may occur, particularly if the tumor becomes infected (myxoma syndrome).
It is possible to diagnose atrial myxoma through a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and cardiac investigations.
Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) are typically used to visualize and assess the size, location, and mobility of the atrial myxoma.
A cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scan may provide additional information about the extent of cardiac involvement and tumor characteristics.
ECGs may reveal nonspecific changes such as arrhythmias, conduction abnormalities, or myocardial ischemia.
A complete blood count (CBC), coagulation studies, and inflammatory markers may be ordered to assess for signs of infection, inflammation, or coagulopathy.
As a treatment for atrial myxoma, surgery is often performed to remove the tumor and prevent complications. Surgical excision of atrial myxoma is considered the definitive treatment and is usually performed via open-heart surgery (cardiopulmonary bypass). For tumor removal, robotic-assisted or video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery may be used. In the event of recurrence or complications, such as valve dysfunction or atrial fibrillation, long-term follow-up and monitoring may be required following surgical resection.
In order to prevent complications such as embolic events, heart failure, or sudden cardiac death, atrial myxoma must be recognized early, diagnosed quickly, and treated promptly. Atrial myxoma cannot be prevented directly, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing cardiovascular risk factors, and seeking regular medical care for cardiac evaluation and screening can help reduce the risk of complications.
Acute myxoma is a rare cardiac tumor that occurs in the atria of the heart. If atrial myxomas are to be treated and prevented from developing complications, they must be recognized promptly, accurately diagnosed, and surgically resected. Whenever you or someone you know experiences symptoms that suggest atrial myxoma, seek immediate medical attention.
