Commonest benign tumour of heart is –
## **Core Concept**
The question pertains to the identification of the most common benign tumor of the heart. Cardiac tumors can be benign or malignant, with benign tumors being relatively rare. They can arise from any structure within the heart.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer, **Myxoma**, is the most common type of benign cardiac tumor in adults. Myxomas account for approximately 50% of all benign cardiac tumors. They typically occur in the left atrium, often attached to the interatrial septum by a stalk. Myxomas are thought to arise from multipotential mesenchymal cells. They can cause symptoms due to embolization, obstructive effects, or systemic symptoms like fever and weight loss.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A: Lipoma** - While lipomas are benign tumors, they are less common than myxomas and typically occur in the subepicardial or myocardial locations. They are composed of mature adipose tissue.
- **Option B: Fibroma** - Fibromas are rare, benign tumors that primarily occur in children. They are usually found in the left ventricle and can cause obstructive symptoms.
- **Option C: Hemangioma** - Hemangiomas are benign vascular tumors that can occur in the heart but are much less common than myxomas. They are composed of blood vessels and can occur in various locations within the heart.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that myxomas are associated with **Carney complex** in a small percentage of cases. Carney complex is a rare genetic disorder characterized by multiple myxomas, endocrine abnormalities, and skin changes. Recognizing this association can help in the diagnosis and management of patients with cardiac myxomas.
## **Correct Answer:** D. Myxoma.