Recurrent Ventricular Tachycardia Due to Resectable Cardiac Tumor

Abstract

Repeated attacks of paroxysmal rapid heart action and the occurrence of severe cardiac failure during such an episode led to hospitalization of two otherwise healthy two-year-old boys. After conversion of the tachycardia and relief of the cardiac failure, the chest roentgenogram showed an unusual bulge in the region of the left ventricle, and the electrocardiogram indicated an abnormality there. This combination of symptoms and signs suggested the diagnosis of left ventricular tumor, and cardiac catheterization with contrast visualization verified the diagnosis. The tumor was discrete and resectable in both instances. It was characterized as myofibroma or rhabdomyofibroma. Both children have remained free of symptoms on follow-up, which for one child has been ten years.