südamekasvajate

Südamekasvajad are tumors that originate in or spread to the heart. They can be primary, meaning they start in the heart tissue, or secondary, meaning they have metastasized from cancer elsewhere in the body. Primary heart tumors are relatively rare.

Primary heart tumors are broadly classified as benign or malignant. Benign tumors are more common and include myxomas, lipomas, rhabdomyomas, and fibromas. Myxomas are the most frequent type of primary heart tumor, often found in the left atrium. While benign, they can cause serious problems by obstructing blood flow or leading to embolisms if pieces break off. Rhabdomyomas are most commonly found in infants and children, often associated with tuberous sclerosis.

Malignant primary heart tumors, such as sarcomas, are much rarer and have a poorer prognosis. These can grow aggressively and invade surrounding heart structures.

Secondary heart tumors are significantly more common than primary malignant tumors. Cancers that frequently metastasize to the heart include lung cancer, breast cancer, lymphoma, and melanoma. These tumors can affect the heart lining (pericardium), the heart muscle (myocardium), or the heart chambers.

Symptoms of heart tumors are varied and depend on the tumor's size, location, and type. They can include shortness of breath, chest pain, palpitations, fatigue, swelling in the legs and abdomen, and signs of stroke if a blood clot travels to the brain. Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests like echocardiography, CT scans, and MRI scans. Treatment depends on whether the tumor is benign or malignant, its size and location, and the patient's overall health, and can range from surgical removal to chemotherapy or radiation therapy.