A cyst on the heart, most accurately referred to as a pericardial cyst, is a fluid-filled sac that develops in the pericardium, the thin membrane surrounding the heart. These cysts are typically benign (non-cancerous).
Pericardial Cysts Explained
Pericardial cysts are relatively rare. They are usually congenital, meaning a person is born with them. Although typically small (3 to 5 centimeters in diameter), some can grow larger.
Key Aspects of Pericardial Cysts:
- Location: Situated in the pericardium, the sac that encloses the heart and helps protect it.
- Composition: Filled with fluid.
- Nature: Generally benign (non-cancerous).
- Origin: Often congenital (present at birth).
- Size: Usually between 3 and 5 centimeters, but can vary.
Symptoms
Many pericardial cysts cause no symptoms and are discovered incidentally during imaging tests performed for other reasons. However, larger cysts can potentially cause:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Cough
Diagnosis
If a doctor suspects a pericardial cyst, they will likely use imaging techniques such as:
- Chest X-ray: Can sometimes reveal the presence of a cyst.
- Echocardiogram: Uses sound waves to create an image of the heart and surrounding structures.
- CT Scan or MRI: Provide more detailed images and are often used to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment for a pericardial cyst depends on whether it is causing symptoms.
- Asymptomatic Cysts: Often, no treatment is needed. The cyst may simply be monitored periodically with imaging tests to ensure it is not growing or causing problems.
- Symptomatic Cysts: If the cyst is causing symptoms, treatment options include:
- Needle Aspiration: Draining the fluid from the cyst using a needle. However, the cyst can sometimes refill.
- Surgical Removal: Removing the cyst surgically, which can be done through traditional open-chest surgery or minimally invasive techniques.
In summary, a cyst on the heart is typically a pericardial cyst, a fluid-filled sac within the heart's protective membrane, usually benign and sometimes requiring treatment depending on symptoms.
