Long-term control of haemorrhagic brain metastases from atrial myxoma after radiotherapy

Abstract

Background Cardiac myxoma is a rare, benign tumour that commonly originates in the left atrium and may lead to embolic events. Parenchymal brain metastases represent a rare neurological manifestation. While surgical intervention is commonly used, there is limited information on long-term outcomes after radiotherapy treatment. This report describes a case of successful treatment of haemorrhagic brain metastases with radiotherapy and offers a literature review of long-term results after radiotherapy treatment. Case report A 49-year-old woman presented with multiple haemorrhagic brain lesions and a cardiac mass. Surgical removal of the cardiac mass and the symptomatic brain lesion confirmed metastatic cardiac myxoma. Post-surgery, she experienced fatigued and neurocognitive impairment and was closely monitored. However, the metastases progressed. She subsequently received whole-brain radiotherapy, resulting in complete response. Seven years later, she remains in remission, although with enduring neurocognitive impairment. Conclusions Whole-brain radiotherapy can provide long-term control of haemorrhagic brain metastases arising from cardiac myxoma. Radiotherapy dose and treatment volume need careful consideration to reduce toxicity.