A rare case of a intracardiac lipoma

Abstract

HighlightsCardiac lipomas are the third most common type of primary cardiac tumor.There is no defined age or sex distribution.Cardiac lipoma can present with a wide range of symptoms.Echocardiography, CCT/CMR are radiological investigations of choice for diagnosis.Surgical resection remains the mainstay of treatment of symptomatic cardiac lipomas.

Cardiac Lipoma: An Uncharacteristically Large Intra-Atrial Mass Causing Symptoms

“…They are benign tumours of the heart that are mainly composed of mature adipocytes without any cellular atypia (Figures 3 and 4) [1–4]. They are usually well-encapsulated masses [1, 3]. Grossly, they appear as yellow fat divided by fine fibrous trabeculae [4].…”

“…The latter is usually an asymptomatic continuation of the epicardial fat, and when arising from the interatrial septum, it usually spares the fossa ovalis [2]. Unlike, cardiac lipomas which do not have any clear associations, lipomatous hypertrophy is seen more commonly in older, obese people and in females [3]. …”

“…Different autopsy series estimate the incidence to be anywhere from 0.001 to 0.19% [1, 2]. Cardiac lipomas comprise approximately 10–19% of all primary tumours of the heart and pericardium and make up 8.4% of all the benign ones [2, 3]. …”

“…However, like the case here demonstrates, at times they can grow large and cause significant symptoms. When symptomatic, patients with cardiac lipoma can have various presentations, depending on the size and location of the tumour [3]. No clear guidelines have been established due to the low incidence of cardiac lipomas, but resection has been reported to be effective.…”

Incidental finding of giant pericardial lipoma

“…Primary tumours of the heart are exceedingly rare, accounting for <5% of all cardiac tumours 1. Lipoma is a collection of fat cells which usually occur in the skin and are rarely found around the heart.…”