Ventricular Myxoma Associated With Cerebral Embolism

Cardiac tumor emboli to the brain are rare. Previously reported cases have all been associated with myxoma of the left atrium, and, to our knowledge, an embolus associated with a myxoma of the ventricle has not been previously reported. The patient had two episodes of recurrent hemiplegia following periods of excessive exertion. Carotid angiography demonstrated a complete occlusion of the left middle cerebral artery. Echocardiography also proved valuable in diagnosis. Microscopic examination of this vessel revealed the lesion to be a myxoma which had originated from a myxoma of the apex of the left ventricle. This etiologic factor should be considered in the occurrence of cerebrovascular occlusive disease in the young adult.