Cerebral Embolism due to a Large Papillary Fibroelastoma arising from the Coumadin Ridge

Abstract

A 70‐year‐old woman developed acute cerebral infarction. Transthoracic echocardiography showed a large mobile mass in the left atrium, suggesting cardiac myxoma as the most likely diagnosis. Surgical exploration revealed a papillary fibroelastoma originating from the coumadin ridge, which is fairly rare but important as a source of cerebral embolization.

A diagnostic dilemma upon discovery of a left atrial mass using an intracardiac echocardiogram

“…13 Since there can be difficulty in distinguishing between fibroelastoma and thrombus on echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance can help with the distinction, which can save patients from risks of lifelong anticoagulation and possible surgical excision to prevent thromboembolic complications. 14 …”