What is Cardiac Myxoma?
Cardiac myxoma is a rare benign heart tumour. This mainly comes from the left upper chamber of the heart, also called the left atrium, but can develop from any part of the heart. It usually affects people between the ages of 30 and 60. It is slightly more prevalent in women than in men.
What is a Myxoma?
Myxoma is a rapid, uncontrolled division or multiplication (tumour) of primitive connective tissues. Primitive connective tissues are the connective tissues of embryonic life that form blood, bones, and cartilage.
Disease Etiology (Causes)
It is a common type of non-cancerous heart tumour in adults. There is no well-known cause, in 10% of cases, it is inherited and associated with Carney’s syndrome. It is an inherited syndrome that causes skin hyperpigmentation (unusual darkness of the skin) and cardiac myxoma.
Signs and Symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are
- Difficulty in breathing on exertion or any physical activity, or during sleep
- Syncope (Sudden loss of consciousness)
- Lightheadedness
- Palpitations (sensation of feeling your heartbeat)
- Cough
- Coughing up blood or blood-stained mucous
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Weight loss
- Pain in joints
- The feeling of constant tiredness
- Swelling of face
- Sudden death due to cardiac arrest
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic techniques and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are
- Echocardiogram (Ultrasonography of the heart)
- Angiography
- X-ray Chest
- MRI of heart
- CBC (complete blood count)
Treatment
Removal of the tumour through surgery is the main treatment option.
What Support can we Give for Cardiac Myxoma (Myxoma Heart)?
Cardiac Myxoma (Myxoma Heart) is rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Cardiac Myxoma (Myxoma Heart) we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!
You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:
