Cardiac Tumors in Pediatric Cardiology at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC)
Cardiac tumors, although rare, represent a significant challenge in pediatric cardiology. At Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC), a comprehensive approach is taken to diagnose and manage these tumors effectively.
Types of Cardiac Tumors
Primary vs. Secondary Tumors
Cardiac tumors can be classified into primary and secondary categories. Primary tumors originate in the heart, while secondary tumors are metastatic, arising from cancers elsewhere in the body. Among primary cardiac tumors, benign types are more common, accounting for approximately 75% of cases, with myxomas being the most prevalent. Malignant tumors, including sarcomas, make up the remaining 25% and are often more challenging to treat due to their aggressive nature
Common Types of Pediatric Cardiac Tumors
- Myxomas: The most frequent primary cardiac tumor, often found in the left atrium.
- Rhabdomyomas: These are hamartomas associated with tuberous sclerosis and are the most common fetal cardiac tumors.
- Hemangiomas: Rare but can occur at any age and location within the heart.
Diagnosis of Cardiac Tumors
Imaging Techniques
Diagnosis typically involves various imaging modalities:
- Echocardiography: This is the primary tool for detecting cardiac masses, providing critical information about size, location, and impact on heart function.
- Cardiac MRI and CT: These advanced imaging techniques offer detailed views and help differentiate between tumor types.
Histological examination through biopsy is essential for confirming the diagnosis and determining the appropriate treatment plan
Treatment Approaches
Surgical Management
Surgical resection is often the treatment of choice for benign tumors, with excellent outcomes reported for myxoma excisions. In contrast, malignant tumors pose greater surgical challenges and may require a combination of therapies including chemotherapy or radiation post-surgery
Postoperative Care
Post-surgical monitoring is crucial as patients may experience complications such as arrhythmias or bleeding. At SSMC, a multidisciplinary team ensures comprehensive postoperative care to enhance recovery and monitor for potential tumor recurrence
At Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC), pediatric cardiology specialists are dedicated to providing advanced care for children with cardiac tumors. Through early diagnosis and tailored treatment strategies, SSMC aims to improve outcomes for young patients facing these complex conditions. The focus remains on combining surgical expertise with innovative imaging techniques to ensure effective management of cardiac tumors in children.
