Heart Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Shruti Surushe , Oncologists

Causes
Find a Doctor
Diagnosis
Treatment
FAQs
Book an Appointment

1. Causes 2. Find a Doctor 3. Diagnosis 4. Treatment 5. FAQs

Heart cancer is a rare malignancy that develops in the tissues of the heart. It may be primary (originating in the heart) or, more commonly, secondary (spreading to the heart from another cancer). Symptoms can include chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, fatigue, or signs of heart failure. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapies, help improve outcomes and quality of life.

What Are the Types of Heart Cancer?

Heart cancer is classified based on where the tumor originates.

Primary Heart Cancer: Begins in the heart. Types include cardiac angiosarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, fibrosarcoma, and primary cardiac lymphoma.
Secondary (Metastatic) Heart Cancer: Results from cancers that spread to the heart from organs such as the lungs, breasts, kidneys, or skin (melanoma).

What Are the Common Causes of Heart Cancer?

Genetic Factors: The causes of heart cancer are not entirely understood, but genetic predisposition plays a significant role. Mutations in specific genes can lead to the uncontrolled growth of cells in the heart.
Environmental Factors: Environmental factors, although less clearly defined, may also contribute to the development of heart cancer. Exposure to certain chemicals and radiation has been linked to increased cancer risk. Lifestyle factors such as smoking and poor diet can exacerbate these risks.
Underlying Health Conditions: Pre-existing health conditions, such as chronic inflammation or previous cancers, can increase the likelihood of developing heart cancer. Understanding and managing these risk factors is essential for prevention.

When to See a Doctor for Heart Cancer?

Consult a cardiologist or oncologist if you experience persistent chest pain, unexplained shortness of breath, irregular heartbeats, fainting, or have a history of cancer with new cardiac symptoms. Early evaluation can help identify heart tumors and guide timely treatment.

You should see a doctor if you have:

Persistent chest pain or shortness of breath
Unexplained palpitations or irregular heartbeat
Repeated fainting episodes
A history of cancer with new heart-related symptoms

Get medical help immediately if:

Severe chest pain or pressure
Sudden difficulty breathing
Loss of consciousness
Signs of stroke, such as facial drooping, arm weakness, or difficulty speaking

These could indicate serious complications of heart cancer requiring urgent medical care.

Find Oncologists for Heart Cancer Treatment Near You

How is Heart Cancer Diagnosed?

Imaging Techniques: Diagnosing heart cancer involves a combination of imaging techniques. Echocardiograms, MRI scans, and CT scans are commonly used to detect tumors and assess their size and location.
Biopsy: A biopsy, where a tissue sample is taken and examined under a microscope, is essential for confirming the diagnosis and determining the type of cancer.
Blood Tests: Blood tests can also provide valuable information, although they are less definitive. Elevated levels of certain markers might indicate the presence of cancer.

What Are the Treatment Options for Heart Cancer?

Surgical Options: Surgery is often the first line of treatment for heart cancer, especially if the tumor is localized and operable. Procedures can range from removing part of the tumor to extensive surgeries involving parts of the heart.
Radiation Therapy: Radiation oncology uses high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells. It is often used in conjunction with other treatments to improve outcomes. However, due to the sensitive nature of heart tissues, this treatment must be carefully managed to avoid damaging healthy cells.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves using drugs to kill cancer cells. It can be administered orally or intravenously and is often used when the cancer has spread or in conjunction with surgery and radiation therapy.
Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy is a newer approach that involves drugs designed to target specific aspects of cancer cells, such as proteins that control cell growth. This therapy can be more effective and have fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy.
Palliative Care: For advanced heart cancer, palliative care aims to improve the quality of life rather than cure the disease. This can include pain management, psychological support, and other treatments to alleviate symptoms.

Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.

Consult Heart Cancer Doctors Today

What Prevention Steps Should Be Taken for Heart Cancer?

Lifestyle Changes: Although heart cancer cannot always be prevented, certain lifestyle changes can reduce the risk. These include maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption.
Regular Check-ups: Regular medical check-ups are essential for early detection and management of potential health issues. Individuals with a family history of cancer or other risk factors should be particularly vigilant.
Managing Pre-existing Conditions: Proper management of pre-existing health conditions, such as hypertension and diabetes, can also reduce the risk of developing heart cancer.