Surgery can be complicated, as the tumor may require reconstruction of the heart. Radiation therapy can also help slow tumor growth and improve symptoms. Chemotherapy is often the only treatment for primary heart cancer, but can also be used in metastatic cases. If your doctor suspects cancer near the heart, make an appointment to discuss your options.
Most cancers that develop near the heart are benign. The most common type, papillary fibroelastoma, can cause valve damage, which can result in embolism. Embolism is caused by bits of the tumor that break off and travel through the bloodstream, causing a heart attack or stroke. Rhabdomyoma is the most common type of cancer of the heart in children and is usually caused by an infection or a birth defect. It usually develops on the left lower chamber of the heart. It is often associated with calcium deposits.
Because the heart is made up of muscle cells and connective tissue, cancers near the heart are rarely found in this part of the body. This type of cancer usually starts in another organ, such as the lungs, and then spreads to the heart. Several different types of cancer may affect the heart, including lung cancer, breast cancer, esophageal cancer, and melanoma. Although these types of tumors can be fatal, most cases are curable with surgery.
The symptoms of cancer near the heart vary, and they are often similar to those of heart failure. However, the symptoms of a heart tumor can be difficult to distinguish from those of heart failure. The small tumour pieces can become embolisms, which can occlude blood vessels near the heart and travel to the brain. An embolism can cause a stroke. You must seek medical attention immediately if you suspect that you have a tumor near the heart.
While primary cardiac tumors are rare, they can be deadly, especially in young patients. Because they are rare, early detection is key to maximizing the chances of cure. Early surgery and systemic chemotherapy are common treatments for primary cardiac tumours. To ensure your overall recovery, consider getting regular checkups at an experienced cardiac surgery center. There are numerous benefits to early detection of cancer near the heart. It is best to seek a renowned doctor with a proven track record of success.
There are many symptoms of heart tumors, and the symptoms vary from person to person. Some symptoms of atrial myxoma are sweating, high temperature, shortness of breath, dizziness, and chest pain. Malignant heart tumours may cause obstruction of blood flow, or may cause fluid to accumulate around the heart’s outer layer. Patients with the latter type of cancer may suffer from arrhythmias, blackouts, and sudden death.
