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Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2008; 56(1): 9-13
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-989281
Review

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Papillary Fibroelastomas of the Heart

K. Sydow1 , S. Willems1 , H. Reichenspurner2 , T. Meinertz1
  • 1Department of Cardiology, Hamburg University Heart Center, Hamburg, Germany
  • 2Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Hamburg University Heart Center, Hamburg, Germany
Further Information

Publication History

received July 10, 2007

Publication Date:
17 January 2008 (online)

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Abstract

Cardiac papillary fibroelastomas (CPFs), the second most common primary cardiac tumor, are benign endocardial papillomas predominantly affecting the cardiac valves. Although CPFs are rare and benign tumors, they may result in life-threatening complications. Early diagnosis of this condition is important, since it represents a surgically correctable cause of systemic embolism, myocardial infarction, stroke, acute valve dysfunction, and sudden cardiac death. This review summarizes the significance and clinical approach for the diagnosis of this cardiac entity. The differential diagnosis, histological characteristics of CPF and current treatment strategies are also discussed.

Key words

cardiovascular surgery - heart valve surgery - heart tumors - papillary fibroelastoma

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Dr. MD Karsten Sydow

Department of Cardiology
Hamburg University Heart Center

Martinistraße 52

20246 Hamburg

Germany

Phone: + 49 4 04 28 03 88 64

Fax: + 49 4 04 28 03 88 62

Email: sydow@uke.de

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