Reversal of pulmonary arterial hypertension in POEMS syndrome with thalidomide: A case report

Abstract

Our case is a unique report of cardiac lymphoma isolated to the left ventricle. Location of the tumour and lack of specific imaging characteristics made it a diagnostic challenge. It underscores the importance of including lymphoma in the differential for intracardiac masses as it is responsive to chemotherapy. Additionally, it emphasizes the complementary role of imaging modalities and multidisciplinary team approach in diagnosis. Early diagnosis and therapy is the key to establishing successful outcomes. Case presentation We present a case of a 45-year-old woman with a chief complaint of dyspnoea, eventually diagnosed with severe PAH in the setting of POEMS (polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, M-protein, and skin changes) syndrome that was successfully treated with thalidomide and dexamethasone.Discussion Our case suggests that it would be important to consider associated syndromes when a diagnosis of PH is made, because treatment of the underlying condition may lead to improvement in PAH.