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Myxoma Tumours of the Heart

Topic Overview

Myxomas are tumours of connective tissue. They can occur almost anywhere in the body, including the heart.

Treatment for a myxoma in the heart depends on many things. These include where the tumour is and if it is blocking blood flow.

If the tumour is in the left atrium, surgery might be done to remove it. This can help lower the risk of a stroke.

In rare cases, a tumour (myxoma) growing on the valve surface or in the left atrium of the heart can cause a blockage of the mitral valve that is similar to mitral valve stenosis. The tumour can either block the valve opening or restrict the movement of the valve and prevent it from opening completely.

References

Other Works Consulted

  • Meschia JF, et al. (2014). Guidelines for the primary prevention of stroke: A statement for healthcare professionals from the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. Stroke, published online October 28, 2014. DOI: 10.1161/STR.0000000000000046. Accessed October 29, 2014.

Credits

Current as of:
April 29, 2021

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Rakesh K. Pai MD, FACC - Cardiology, Electrophysiology
Brian D. O'Brien MD - Internal Medicine
E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
John A. McPherson MD, FACC, FSCAI - Cardiology