Cardiac Tumors

Cardiac tumors are primary tumors or secondary tumors that form in the heart. Most cardiac tumors are noncancerous (benign) and some cardiac tumors are cancerous (malignant).

Types of cardiac tumors include:

• Benign Cardiac Tumors
• Myxoma – a tumor that forms inside the heart cavity, most commonly in the left atrium. The common type of cardiac tumor.
• Rhabdomyomas – a tumor that develops in the heart muscle or the inner layer of heart tissue, typically in the walls of the ventricle. Occurs in children or infants.
• Fibromas – a tumor that develops in the heart muscle or the inner layer of heart tissue, typically in the valves.
• Teratomas of the pericardium – a tumor that forms at the base of the great vessels, most commonly in the left atrium. Occurs in infants.
• Malignant Cardiac Tumors
• Angiosarcomas – a cancerous tumor that typically develops on the right side of the heart. The common type of malignant cardiac tumor.
• Rhabdomyosarcomas – a cancerous tumor that typically develops in the heart muscle.

Symptoms

Cardiac tumors symptoms vary depending on the type and location, some symptoms may include:

• Chest pain.
• Fatigue.
• Rapid or abnormal heartbeats.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, consult a MemorialCare Physician partner.

Diagnosis

To diagnose cardiac tumors a wide range of tests and procedures can be performed including:

• Electrocardiogram (EKG)
• Digital Echocardiography
• Computed Tomography (CT Scan)
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Chest X-ray
• Cardiac Catheterization
• Biopsy of heart muscle or tissue

Treatments

Cardiac tumor treatments depend on the type and size. Some tumors may be monitored and may not require surgery. If surgery is required, we offer minimally invasive surgery with robotic assistance.

Robotic Assisted Heart Surgery

• Robotic Assisted Cardiac Tumor (Atrial Myxoma) Removal