Unusually Early Recurrence of Mitral Valve Myxoma in a Child

Systemic Inflammation in the Setting of Cardiac Myxomas: an Overview of Clinical and Practical Considerations

“… 2) 3) In their recently published interesting article by Eun at al. 1) have reported an unusual case of mitral valve myxoma involving the left ventricular outflow tract in an adolescent male. We hold the opinion that substantial systemic inflammation and potential genetic basis might have a pivotal role in the unusually early recurrence of cardiac myxoma in this case.…”

“…In clinical practice, cardiac myxomas have been the most common type of benign cardiac neoplasms generally presenting with a variety of obstructive, embolic and constitutional symptoms. 1) 2) 3) Typically, these tumors involve the left atrium, and are mostly encountered in middle-aged females. 2) 3) In their recently published interesting article by Eun at al.…”

“…However, histopathological findings of the excised material and absence of positive blood cultures (even in the presence of fever) suggest that substantial inflammatory reaction in the patient might be regarded as an inherent feature of his cardiac myxoma. Importantly, severe systemic inflammation associated with cardiac myxomas might potentially facilitate systemic embolism as a consequence of enhanced tumoral fragility 4) (as evidenced by the multisystemic embolism in the patient), 1) and hence; mandates urgent excision. More interestingly, interleukin-6 (IL-6) has been suggested as a myxoma-related cytokine, and might play a pivotal role in myxoma recurrences.…”

“…Finally, a familial background also might be related in the case. 1) In this context, familial cardiac myxomas might be encountered as part of certain syndromes including Carney's complex (characterized by a variety of endocrinological abnormalities and cutaneous tumors) or in a non-syndromic manner. 10) Importantly, familial cardiac myxomas generally arise in atypical locations, and usually present at relatively young ages along with a higher risk of recurrence.…”

Author's Reply to Systemic Inflammation in the Setting of Cardiac Myxomas: an Overview of Clinical and Practical Considerations

“…We sincerely appreciate the letter by Yalta et al 1) for our recently published report regarding a mitral valve myxoma in an adolescent male, who presented with signs and symptoms of substantial systemic inflammation. 2) They also provided informative comments on the general implications of systemic inflammation in the setting of cardiac myxoma.…”