Heart cancer
Heart cancer is a rare form of cancer that originates in the heart. Primary heart cancer, which starts in the heart itself, is extremely rare. However, secondary heart cancer, which starts elsewhere in the body and spreads to the heart, is slightly more common.
Types of Heart Cancer[edit | edit source]
There are two main types of heart cancer: primary and secondary.
Primary Heart Cancer[edit | edit source]
Primary heart cancer is extremely rare. When it does occur, it often arises from the heart's lining, the endocardium. The most common type of primary heart cancer is sarcoma.
Secondary Heart Cancer[edit | edit source]
Secondary heart cancer is more common than primary heart cancer. This type of cancer begins in another part of the body and spreads to the heart. The cancers most likely to spread to the heart are lung cancer, breast cancer, esophageal cancer, stomach cancer, and melanoma.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
The symptoms of heart cancer can vary widely and are often similar to those of other heart conditions. They may include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in the legs or abdomen, and palpitations.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosing heart cancer can be challenging due to its rarity and the nonspecific nature of its symptoms. Doctors may use a variety of tests, including echocardiogram, MRI, CT scan, and biopsy.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for heart cancer depends on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. Options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these.
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
The prognosis for heart cancer varies widely depending on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. In general, the prognosis for primary heart cancer is poor, while the prognosis for secondary heart cancer depends largely on the prognosis of the original cancer.
See Also[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
