Imaging features of nonmyxomatous primary neoplasms of the heart and pericardium.

We present the imaging findings in 13 patients with nonmyxomatous primary neoplasms of the heart and pericardium. Ten patients had abnormal chest films. While echocardiography was useful for determining origin of the tumor, CT (computed tomography) and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) were better at delineating extent of disease. The radiographic appearance of these rare neoplasms of the heart and pericardium is varied. Cross-sectional imaging plays a crucial role in the surgical planning and management of these patients.