title: A calcified cardiac mass.
abstract: Cardiac fibromas are benign tumours, often diagnosed in childhood, but rarely they may be diagnosed in adults or the elderly. We present an interesting case of a middle-aged lady presenting with exertional chest pain and breathlessness, who was found to have a heavily calcified mass within the myocardium. With a previous history of chest trauma, a calcified myocardial haematoma was initially suspected. Complete surgical excision led to a total resolution of symptoms. Histological examination confirmed the diagnosis of a cardiac fibroma. Complete excision of cardiac fibromas, where possible, is advised and is associated with excellent survival.
authors.forename: M Bilal
authors.initials: MB
authors.lastname: Iqbal
authors.forename: George
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Stavri
authors.forename: Tarun
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Mittal
authors.forename: Asghar
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Khaghani
mesh_terms: D001707:Biopsy, Needle; D002114:Calcinosis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D006348:Cardiac Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods; D009202:Cardiomyopathies / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D002637:Chest Pain / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D017023:Coronary Angiography; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004562:Electrocardiography; D005260:Female; D005350:Fibroma / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006338:Heart Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D006352:Heart Ventricles; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008875:Middle Aged; D012307:Risk Factors; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D016896:Treatment Outcome