Benign Mesenchymal Tumor Of The Heart; Spontaneous Regression And Disappearance Of Pulmonary Artery Stenosis
Chest 82(4): Oct 1982; 503-505
View Original Source →Abstract
The authors report a case of a cardiac tumour documented by 2 D echocardiography, presenting in the newborn with cardiac arrest. The echocardiographic features of multiple nodules disseminated in the ventricular walls suggested a diagnosis of rhabdomyoma. The initial course was complicated by poorly tolerated attacks of tachycardia which were rapidly brought under control with amiodarone. The long-term outcome was clinically favorable with a rapid regression of the number and size of the tumours on echocardiography, and a tendency to normalization of the electrocardiographs. The possibility of regression, which has already been reported by many investigators, suggests that these cardiac tumours may have a better prognosis than previously thought.
Case Details
Personal Characteristics
20-month-old baby, well-developed, well-nourished boy, blood pressure 100/60 mmhg, pulse rate 150/minute
Clinical Characteristics
Large benign mesenchymal tumor of the right ventricular wall and right pulmonary artery stenosis, respiratory distress, marked cardiomegaly, frequent premature beats, coarse rhonchi, grade 3/6 ejection systolic murmur, liver palpable 2 centimeters below the right costal margin, hemoglobin 10 gm/dl, white blood cell count 11,500/ml
Remission Characteristics
Respiratory distress improved gradually, normal intracardiac pressures, disappearance of right pulmonary artery stenosis, asymptomatic at age 20
Treatment & Mechanisms
Proposed Remission Mechanisms
Not discussed
Clinical Treatment
Biopsy of the tumor, exploratory thoracotomy, cardiac catheterization
Additional Notes
The tumor was believed to be a benign mesenchymal tumor and most likely fibroblastic. The patient did not receive any form of treatment after digitalis was discontinued. He was able to attend school and participate in sports activities.