Atrial myxoma

Atrial myxoma is a relatively common cardiac tumor, accounting for approximately 50% of all benign heart tumors in adults. It most frequently occurs in the left atrium and is typically attached to the interatrial septum, usually presenting as a benign neoplastic lesion.

Atrial myxomas generally originate from multipotent mesenchymal cells. About 75% of myxomas occur in the left atrium of the heart. The condition is often closely associated with genetic inheritance, and patients with this type are classified as having familial myxoma. Most patients do not exhibit any signs or symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include chest pain or a tight sensation on the left side of the chest, dyspnea, shortness of breath, palpitations, and others.

For asymptomatic patients, regular follow-up observation may be adopted. If the disease progresses rapidly or significant symptoms develop, surgical removal of the tumor via median sternotomy can be performed based on medical advice. Postoperative prognosis is generally favorable. Patients with this condition should adhere to the principle of early detection and early treatment to reduce the risk of thromboembolic events.