Use of microbubble contrast in the diagnosis of a left ventricular papillary fibroelastoma

Differential diagnosis of cardiac tumors: General consideration and echocardiographic approach

Cardiac tumors may be primary (either benign or malignant) or secondary (malignant) and are first detected by echocardiography in most cases. The cardiologist often challenges their identification, the differential diagnosis and the best therapeutic approach. Malignant tumors have usually a poor prognosis, which may be significantly improved by appropriate and timely therapies. The echocardiographic aspects of benign and malignant cardiac tumors described in this article, along with a clinical evaluation may orient the differential diagnosis and aid in choosing the further steps useful to define the nature of the mass.

Cardiac Papillary Fibroelastoma in Left Ventricular Trabeculation as a Potential Cause of Cerebral Infarction: A Case Report

Cardiac papillary fibroelastoma (CPF) is the second or third most common primary cardiac tumor. Although histologically benign, it can cause serious symptoms depending on its location of occurrence, size, and motility. Herein, we report CPF in the left ventricular trabeculation as a potential cause of cerebral infarction.

Contrast Echocardiography without Contrast Agent for Display of Intraventricular Mass

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Contrast echocardiography was scheduled for assessment of a cardiac mass.

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A bright mass was displayed using very low MI contrast-specific imaging.

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Histologic examination showed a papillary fibroelastoma.

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Low-MI contrast imaging may help diagnose tumors with high content of fibrous tissue.