Adult Echocardiography Practice Exam

What type of cardiac mass is typically found involving the interatrial septum?

1. Mesothelioma

2. Hemangioma

3. Lipomatous hypertrophy

4. Tumor

The correct answer is: Lipomatous hypertrophy

Lipomatous hypertrophy is a specific type of cardiac mass that typically occurs in the interatrial septum, particularly affecting the atrial septal area. This condition is characterized by the accumulation of adipose tissue, which can lead to a benign and often asymptomatic mass. The fat deposition usually does not obstruct blood flow or interfere significantly with cardiac function, although it can sometimes be mistaken for a more concerning mass during imaging studies. This type of mass is distinct from other options that may be considered in the differential diagnosis of inter-atrial septal masses. For instance, mesotheliomas and hemangiomas are less commonly associated with the interatrial septum and have different etiologies and implications, making them unlikely options. Tumors can involve the heart and might appear in various cardiac locations, but they do not specifically correlate with the characteristic presentation of lipomatous hypertrophy on the interatrial septum. Understanding the typical presentation of lipomatous hypertrophy in echocardiography and how it differs from other cardiac masses aids practitioners in making accurate diagnoses and determining appropriate management strategies for cardiac masses encountered in clinical practice.