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.