A Left Atrial Mass Presenting as Ischemic Stroke in a Young Adult: A Case of Suspected Atrial Myxoma

Background: Atrial myxoma is the most common benign primary cardiac tumor and may occur sporadically or as part of a familial syndrome. Although clinical manifestations vary, neurological complications secondary to tumor embolization are relatively uncommon. We report a case of atrial myxoma presenting as acute ischemic stroke in a young, previously healthy adult.  Case Presentation: A 25-year-old previously healthy man presented with a 4-day history of acute neurologic deficit. Non-contrast computed tomography of the brain demonstrated multiple acute ischemic infarcts involving the left cerebral hemisphere. Echocardiography subsequently revealed a large, mobile, hyperechoic intracardiac mass, highly suggestive of a left atrial myxoma and providing a likely source of cardioembolic stroke.  Conclusion: This case demonstrates the importance of prompt cardiac evaluation in young patients presenting with unexplained ischemic stroke, as early identification of an intracardiac mass may facilitate appropriate management and prevent recurrent embolic events.  Summary: Atrial Myxoma is the most common benign primary cardiac tumor that rarely presents with neurologic deficits. We present a case of a 25-year-old male with acute-onset neurological deficits. Echo revealed a large mass highly suggestive of atrial myxoma. This case highlights the importance of prompt cardiac evaluation in young patients with unexplained ischemic stroke to identify intracardiac sources and prevent recurrence.