Diagnosis
Primary Tumors Hard to Diagnose
Primary heart tumors are difficult to diagnose because they are so rare. They may be suspected, though, in those who are having heart murmurs, arrhythmias, unexplained fevers or unexplained symptoms of heart failure.
Secondary Tumors Suspect in Those with Cancer
Secondary heart tumors are suspected when people who have cancer in other places in the body are exhibiting symptoms of heart disorders.
Diagnostic Tests
Heart tumors can be detected by any of the following tests:
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
This test delivers computer-generated, x-ray images of structures inside the body.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Scan
MRI uses magnets and radio waves to make images of the inside of your body.
Echocardiogram
This test uses sound waves to create a moving picture of the heart. The picture is much more detailed than x-ray image and involves no radiation exposure.
Angiogram
A test in which a thin tube called a catheter is snaked into a blood vessel and a contrast due is injected to make the vessels visible on x-ray.
