Abstract 4339624: Pericardial Tamponade Physiology in a Rare Case of Primary Mediastinal Embryonal Carcinoma: Diagnostic and Management Challenges

Primary mediastinal embryonal carcinoma is an exceptionally rare and aggressive extragonadal germ cell tumor, comprising less than 2% of mediastinal germ cell neoplasms. Cardiovascular complications, including pericardial effusion and tamponade physiology, are even more infrequent, with only isolated cases reported. We present the case of a 35-year-old male with no significant medical history who presented with progressive dyspnea, pleuritic chest pain, and right shoulder discomfort. Imaging revealed a massive anterior mediastinal mass (21.2 × 14.3 × 20.3 cm) compressing the left lung and shifting mediastinal structures rightward, with direct extension into the left atrium and pulmonary veins (Image 1 and 2). Echocardiography demonstrated a moderate-to-large pericardial effusion with right atrial inversion and respiratory variation in mitral inflow, suggestive of early tamponade (Image 3). However, due to stable hemodynamics and significant distortion of normal anatomy from the tumor mass, pericardiocentesis was deferred as high-risk. Multidisciplinary teams opted for conservative management, and the patient was initiated on systemic chemotherapy with ifosfamide, etoposide, and cisplatin. Serial imaging demonstrated stabilization of the pericardial effusion and early signs of tumor response. Pathology confirmed embryonal carcinoma with elevated tumor markers (AFP 514 ng/mL, β-hCG 158 mIU/mL, LDH 3,078 U/L). Neurological evaluation for multifocal infarcts revealed a brain metastasis and suspected embolic phenomena; vascular imaging showed a left popliteal artery thrombus. The case illustrates a rare instance where both malignant pericardial effusion and external tumor compression contributed to tamponade physiology without overt clinical collapse. It highlights the complexity of managing cardiac involvement in malignancy, where anatomy, mass effect, and clinical stability guide intervention. This case reinforces the need for individualized cardiovascular decision-making and interdisciplinary coordination in rare oncologic presentations involving pericardial pathology.