Myxoma

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Myxoma

A myxoma is a type of benign tumor that arises from connective tissue. It is characterized by its gelatinous appearance and is most commonly found in the heart, specifically in the atria. Myxomas are the most common type of primary cardiac tumor in adults.

Epidemiology

Myxomas are relatively rare, with an incidence of approximately 0.5 per million people per year. They are more commonly diagnosed in women than in men and typically occur in individuals aged 30 to 60 years.

Pathophysiology

Myxomas are composed of stellate or globular myxoma cells embedded in a myxoid stroma. They often have a gelatinous consistency due to the presence of abundant mucopolysaccharides. These tumors can vary in size and may be pedunculated, meaning they are attached to the endocardium by a stalk.

Clinical Presentation

Patients with myxomas may present with a variety of symptoms, depending on the size and location of the tumor. Common symptoms include:

• Dyspnea (shortness of breath)
• Palpitations
• Syncope (fainting)
• Embolism (if tumor fragments break off and travel through the bloodstream)
• Constitutional symptoms such as fever, weight loss, and fatigue

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a myxoma is typically made using echocardiography, which can visualize the tumor within the heart. Other imaging modalities such as MRI and CT scan can also be used to further characterize the tumor.

Treatment

The primary treatment for myxoma is surgical resection. This involves the removal of the tumor, often through an open-heart surgical procedure. The prognosis after surgical removal is generally good, although there is a risk of recurrence.

Prognosis

The prognosis for patients with myxoma is generally favorable following surgical removal. However, regular follow-up is necessary to monitor for potential recurrence.

See also

• Cardiac tumor
• Benign tumor
• Echocardiography
• Surgical resection