Importance of Cerebral-Placental Ratio in the Prenatal Diagnosis, Management, and Postnatal Outcome of a Fetus with Giant Cardiac Rhabdomyoma

Introduction

Rhabdomyoma is the most prevalent cardiac tumor found in fetal and neonatal life. Although rhabdomyoma usually exists in multiple foci, it rarely manifests as a unitary solid cardiac rhabdomyoma in fetal life. Most cardiac rhabdomyomas present with tuberous sclerosis (TSC). Rhabdomyomas are usually asymptomatic; however, the size and speed of tumor growth can present life-threatening challenges. The clinical manifestations of tumors vary depending on their location. Giant cardiac rhabdomyomas have different fatal consequences. Due to their fast growth rate, cardiac rhabdomyomas can conspicuously show themselves in different sizes and, depending on their location, can cause arrhythmias, cardiac shock, fetal hydrops, and obstruction of ventricular outflow tracts, both prenatally and early postnatally. This case report highlights the importance of using the cerebral-placental ratio in fetal life to determine postnatal outcomes and to plan possible treatment options for pediatric patients with giant cardiac rhabdomyoma.

Publication History

Article published online:
23 January 2025