Atrial myxoma-related embolism resulting in acute limb ischaemia in a critical care patient

Abstract

This report presents an unusual case of limb ischaemia in the critical care setting, the cause of which was elucidated on echocardiography. Evaluation of the case highlights the importance of appropriate and timely investigation, in particular the role of bedside echocardiography. Although atrial myxomas are uncommon, a thorough investigation of patients presenting with acute peripheral ischaemic events should be undertaken to facilitate the diagnosis of this treatable condition.

Embolism from a left ventricular myxoma presenting with acute limb ischaemia

“…Echocardiography is the primary diagnostic tool for determining the tumour location, size and relationship with other intracardiac structures. For suspected malignancies, CT and MRI improve diagnostic accuracy 33 34…”