Cardiac myxoma diagnosed by signs of purpuric macules on both palms and soles

Ann Dermatol. 2012 Aug;24(3):337-40. doi: 10.5021/ad.2012.24.3.337. Epub 2012 Jul 25.

Abstract

Cardiac myxoma, the most prevalent primary cardiac tumor, is rare. The clinical features of this tumor are principally intracardiac obstruction, extracardiac embolism, and general symptoms including fever, myalgia, arthralgia. Although cutaneous manifestations in patients with cardiac myxoma are frequent, in rare cases, cutaneous signs have been clues to the correct diagnosis. We report a 42-year-old male who presented with recurrent multiple purpuric patches on both palms and soles for 4 months. Histopathological finding showed a myxomatous embolus in the arteriole in the lower dermis. Echocardiogram demonstrated the presence of a left atrial myxoma with a provisional diagnosis of left atrial myxoma. In our patient, skin examinations and histopathological finding led us to the diagnosis of cardiac myxoma.

Keywords: Cardiac myxoma; Palms and soles; Purpura.

Publication types

  • Case Reports