The echocardiogram in left atrial myxoma

A case of left atrial myxoma is described in which the echocardiogram provided the clue to the diagnosis. The mechanisms involved in producing a positive result are discussed. The value of the echocardiogram appears to depend upon echoes from the tumor during diastole which can be detected immediately posterior to the anterior cusp of the mitral valve. In this case the tumor was successfully removed with restoration of the normal pattern of mitral valve movement.