Secondary Cardiac Rhabdomyosarcoma: A Unique Presentation

Cardiac tumors are rare and complex, with malignant forms carrying a poor prognosis. These tumors are classified as either primary or secondary, with the latter, including metastases, being more prevalent. Rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare but aggressive soft tissue sarcoma, can occasionally metastasize to the heart. Here, we report the case of a 75-year-old male with metastatic rhabdomyosarcoma originating in the fibular muscles, extending to the left atrium, left ventricle, and bronchi. The patient presented with acute dyspnea, palpitations, and cardiogenic shock. Imaging revealed a large intracardiac mass, and urgent surgical resection was performed, followed by adjuvant chemoradiotherapy. The histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of rhabdomyosarcoma. Despite the poor prognosis typically associated with metastatic rhabdomyosarcoma, the patient showed clinical improvement post-surgery and continued treatment. This case highlights the aggressive nature of rhabdomyosarcoma with cardiac involvement and underscores the importance of multimodal management, including surgery and adjuvant therapy, to improve patient outcomes.