ABSTRACT
A patient with a cardiac rhabdomyosarcoma illustrates the clinical and pathologic features of this extremely rare malignancy. Presenting manifestations are variable and nonspecific. The two-dimensional echocardiogram is the best noninvasive means of diagnosi n g cardiac tumors. The nuclear magnetic resonance scan accurately demonstrated the presence and location of the intracardiac mass lesion. Pathologically, rhabdomyosarcomas require light and electron microscopic examination to establish the tumor type. Surgical resection, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy do not appear to alter the natural history, and death usually occurs within one year of diagnosis.
- Received August 1983.
- Accepted October 1983.
- Copyright © 1984 The Cleveland Clinic Foundation. All Rights Reserved.