Ischemic Stroke Secondary to Left Atrial Papillary Fibroelastoma: A Report of a Rare Case

TL;DR

A rare case of a benign heart tumor in an unusual location caused a stroke, highlighting the importance of early detection and surgical removal.

Contribution

Reports a rare case of left atrial papillary fibroelastoma causing stroke and emphasizes its clinical significance.

Findings

Papillary fibroelastoma in the left atrium is an exceedingly rare cause of ischemic stroke.

Early surgical excision is recommended to prevent life-threatening complications.

The case highlights the need for vigilance in identifying cardiac sources of emboli in stroke patients.

Abstract

Cardiac papillary fibroelastoma (PFE) is a rare benign cardiac tumor that typically arises on valvular endocardium and carries the potential for serious complications despite its non-malignant nature. We present a case of an elderly patient with a PFE in an unusual location, leading to stroke. The patient’s history, diagnostic workup, surgical management, and outcomes are detailed. This case is noteworthy due to the tumor’s atypical left atrial location, an exceedingly rare site, and its presentation as an acute ischemic stroke. In the context of this case, we discuss the clinical significance of PFEs, including their epidemiology, pathology, differential diagnosis, and management strategies. This case underlines the need for vigilance in detecting cardiac sources of emboli in stroke patients and supports early surgical excision of PFEs when feasible to avert potentially life-threatening sequelae.

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