A Rare Cause of Sudden Vision Loss in a Young Male: Papillary Fibroelastoma of the Aortic Valve

Abstract

Cardiac papillary fibroelastoma (CPF) is a rare cardiac neoplasm predominantly affecting the cardiac valves. Although it is most commonly an incidental finding, it can result in life-threatening complications, such as coronary and cerebral embolism, acute valvular dysfunction, and sudden death. In this report, we describe a case of a patient with aortic valve papillary fibroelastoma, which presented with sudden vision loss due to branch retinal artery occlusion. To the best of our knowledge, this is the third case of CPF-related retinal artery embolism in English literature.

Papillary fibroelastoma: clinical and echocardiographic features and initial approach in 54 cases

“…Embolic episodes attributed to PFEs have been described in the coronary arteries, the brain spinal cord, retina lungs, and lower limbs . Intermittent obstruction of a coronary ostium due to a mobile PFE has also been reported .…”

Incidentally Diagnosed Unusual Ascending Aorta Mass

“…The most feared complication of tumors located in the left cardiac chambers is an embolic event, so aortic root and ascending aorta should be examined carefully during routine TTE examination. Early diagnosis and treatment, as in our case, may prevent a catastrophe 5 …”

Aortic valve replacement for papillary fibroelastoma

“…Seven had neurologic events including stroke and transient ischemic attack. A case with retinal arterial embolus is also reported . Two cases were asymptomatic.…”