Clinical Presentation & Protocol
Patient Usually Complains Of
Patient presents with progressive dyspnea, constitutional symptoms (weight loss, night sweats), and signs of right-sided heart failure. History significant for rapid onset of obstructive symptoms or pericardial effusion. No prior history of cardiac disease. Symptoms are refractory to standard heart failure management.
Clinical Examination Findings
Cardiovascular exam reveals muffled heart sounds, elevated JVP, and peripheral edema. Signs of pericardial tamponade or restrictive physiology noted. Auscultation may reveal a pericardial friction rub or new systolic murmur. Hepatomegaly and ascites present, consistent with systemic venous congestion.
Treatment Protocol
Multidisciplinary approach required. Surgical resection (if localized) followed by adjuvant chemotherapy (typically anthracycline-based). Palliative management for advanced cases including pericardiocentesis for tamponade relief and radiation therapy for symptom control. Close monitoring for metastatic disease progression.