MRI and CT Appearances in Various Cardiac Tumours

Abstract

While primary cardiac malignancies are infrequent, the heart often serves as a site for metastases. Myxomas are recognized as among the most prevalent primary benign tumours globally, while sarcomas represent the most common malignant primary tumours. The diverse range of potential clinical presentations depends on factors such as location, size, and the aggressiveness of the disease. The majority of diagnoses rely on medical imaging, making it crucial to familiarize oneself with their distinctive characteristics. When a cardiac mass is suspected, MRI of the heart has emerged as the preferred diagnostic method, surpassing previous techniques. CT is a valuable tool for assessing cardiac morphology and improving electrocardiography gating by providing enhanced details. This article conducts a comprehensive review of the MRI and CT characteristics of both primary and secondary cardiac malignancies, emphasizing crucial distinctions and common diagnostic pitfalls. Despite their rarity, cardiac masses continue to hold significance in the realm of cardio-oncology. Furthermore, this article explores conditions such as thrombus, Lambl's excrescences, and pericardial cysts, which can mimic tumours. Multimodal imaging has played a pivotal role in identifying the origin of cardiac masses in numerous cases, particularly when combined with the clinical context. This article offers an in-depth examination of the frequency, clinical indicators, imaging, diagnostic procedures, available treatments, and prognoses related to cardiac masses.

A Rare Case of Undifferentiated Pleomorphic Cardiac Sarcoma

“…Cardiac MRI offers a wider field of view, no radiation exposure, and detailed tumor characterization with functional assessment. This combination enables a more accurate diagnosis and treatment plan [9]. The evaluation of a cardiac tumor aims to inform us about the size, morphology, anatomical location, attachment site, mobility, and relationship to the cardiac valves and chambers, vascular supply, pericardial effusion presence, pulmonary or vena cava obstruction, and extracardiac findings [5].…”

“…In most cases, undifferentiated sarcomas are typically located in the left atrium, presenting as a discrete mass and as an infiltrative and irregular mass accompanied by necrosis and hemorrhage. Cardiac FSE images reveal an isointense contrast between the tumor and the myocardium [9].…”