Cardiac Mass Evaluation with Cardiac Computed Tomography: A Review

Cardiac masses are rare and include both benign and malignant neoplasms as well as pseudo-tumors. The goal of imaging in patients with suspected cardiac mass is to: (1) confirm presence of a mass; (2) determine the mass' location in the heart; (3) characterize the mass to determine if it is benign or malignant; and (4) evaluate its relationship and effect on adjacent structures. Echocardiography is often the first to detect and assess cardiac structures as it is widely available, non-invasive, and can be done bedside. Echo can also determine if the myocardium or pericardium is involved. Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is often the second modality of choice to evaluate a cardiac mass. Cardiac Computed Tomography (CCT) is an excellent alternative modality with high spatial and temporal resolution, which is widely available, fast, and can be performed in patients with cardiac hardware. We will discuss the role of computed tomography (CT) in the evaluation of various cardiac masses.