True about myxoma is –
**Core Concept**
Myxoma is a rare type of benign cardiac tumor, typically arising from the left atrium. It is a neoplastic growth composed of myxomatous tissue, which is a loose, gelatinous matrix rich in mucopolysaccharides.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Myxomas are usually attached to the atrial septum by a stalk or pedicle and can obstruct blood flow, leading to symptoms such as dyspnea, palpitations, and embolic phenomena. They are often associated with the autosomal dominant condition known as Carney complex, which also involves skin and endocrine abnormalities. The histopathological hallmark of myxoma is the presence of myxomatous cells, which are characterized by their abundant, palely staining cytoplasm and small, bland nuclei.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Myxoma is a malignant tumor. This is incorrect because myxoma is a benign tumor, although it can cause significant morbidity due to its potential to obstruct blood flow or embolize.
**Option B:** Myxoma is most commonly found in the right ventricle. This is incorrect because myxoma is most commonly found in the left atrium, although it can also occur in the right atrium or ventricle.
**Option C:** Myxoma is a type of sarcoma. This is incorrect because myxoma is a type of benign mesenchymal tumor, but it is not a type of sarcoma.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Myxomas can embolize to any part of the body, including the lungs, brain, and limbs, and can cause a wide range of symptoms depending on the location of the embolus.
**Correct Answer: D. Myxoma is a benign cardiac tumor.**