The value of 2D echocardiography in the diagnosis of Myxoma in Owerri, Nigeria

Odumeru E.A¹*, Anele T.I.¹ and Ebirim CI²

¹Radiology Department, Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, Nigeria.

²Public Health Technology Department, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria

*Corresponding Author E-mail: yemioduconcept@yahoo.com; Tel: 2348035517929

Accepted 11 March, 2013

Abstract

Myxoma is the most common primary cardiac tumour found more commonly in female adults of 30-60 years of age. Certain pathologic lesions may mimick myxoma creating high rate of false positive and false negative impressions. Therefore, a more specialised ultrasound imaging technique unit with high diagnostic yield more than the conventional ultrasound unit may be required to make an accurate diagnosis. The purpose of the study is aimed at investigating the value of 2D echocardiography in the diagnosis of myxoma against the conventional ultrasound. Seventy eight patients with different cardiac disorders referred to the radiology department, Federal Medical Centre, Owerri for 2D echo/cardiac scans were studied retrospectively from June 2009 to May 2010. The two units were used on all the patients to determine the incidence of myxoma amongst other cardiac disorders, the diagnostic yield of 2D echo for myxoma general characteristics and associated findings and the results of both units were compared. Minimum age = 24, maximum age = 79, mean age = 52.40 + 13.15. Gender proportion- male = 40 (51.3%), female = 38 (48.7%). Myxoma incidence was 5.1% (4) with gender distribution, female 75% (3) and male 25% (1). Highest occurrence was seen in age group 41-50 years (14.4%). The general characteristics were demonstrated by both units up to 100%. For associated findings, conventional demonstrated 33.3% while 2D demonstrated 100%. The results of 2D echo compared to those of conventional ultrasound in the diagnosis of myxoma make 2D the gold standard ultrasound imaging technique.

Keywords: 2D echocardiography, Conventional ultrasound, Myxom