Myxomas are predominantly found in which part of the heart?

Myxomas, which are the most common primary cardiac tumors in adults, are predominantly found in the left atrium of the heart. This location is particularly notable because these tumors typically arise in the fossa ovalis region, which is an area of the left atrial septum.

The left atrium is a low-pressure chamber that receives oxygenated blood from the pulmonary veins, making it a conducive environment for the development of these tumors. Their presence in the left atrium can lead to various complications, including obstruction of blood flow or embolization, as parts of the tumor can break off and travel to other areas of the body—most critically the brain, potentially causing a stroke.

In contrast, myxomas are relatively less common in other chambers such as the right atrium or the ventricles, where they are significantly less frequently reported. The predominance in the left atrium holds relevance for clinical practice, as it influences symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for patients presenting with cardiac tumors.