Pathology, Oncology, Palliative Care
The role of pathology and pathological examination is well illustrated
in this case. The pathological examination has become quite complex but
is essential for diagnosis and subsequent oncologic treatment. Only with
complex diagnoses can these lesions be categorized and knowledge
advanced in future trials involving treatment regimens. Oncology
collaboration and follow-up are imperative when dealing with malignant
tumors of the heart. While large trials of primary cardiac sarcomas are
non-existent, involvement of oncologists as part of a multidisciplinary
team with constant interaction will ensure that optimal care is given to
the patient. Collaboration must be local and international to advance
knowledge and care at each step of the diagnosis and treatment.
Following delivery of the child, the authors treated the patient with
surgery, Chemotherapy and radiotherapy. There is evidence that surgery
added to the treatment improves survival and visa- versa. (6). What is
not known, is if recurrent surgery is beneficial to that outcome. Again,
this is another question to be answered through international
collaboration due to the rarity of primary cardiac tumors. Once the
usual treatments are no longer viable, the role of a well -organized
palliative care team is highly important to ongoing care (7).
Summary
Wang et al. present a complex cardiac case that beautifully illustrates
both current medical and surgical boundaries of care along with the
achievements that can be obtained with a multi-disciplinary approach and
continued care. By doing so, the authors ensured the safe delivery of a
child and gave more time for the mother. The continued pursuit to the
understanding of current strategies both in terms of surgical approaches
and medical treatments that lead to improvements in the oncologic and
genetic basis of disease remain a goal for our and future generations.