Primary Hepatic Angiosarcoma Mimicking Multifocal Liver Abscess with Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation and Hemoperitoneum

Cureus. 2017 May 30;9(5):e1293. doi: 10.7759/cureus.1293.

Abstract

Primary hepatic angiosarcoma (PHA), a rare and aggressive malignancy, has rarely been reported to present with disseminated intravascular coagulation with liver hemorrhage. Incidence is estimated at 0.5-2.5 cases per 10,000,000. To our knowledge, it has not been reported to mimic liver abscess with a septic presentation. Advanced imaging techniques may aid in the diagnosis, though biopsy with microscopy and immunohistochemistry is the mainstay. Prognosis is very poor, with a 5-year survival rate estimated at 6.4%. We present the case of a 70-year-old man who presented with sepsis thought to be due to a multifocal liver abscess, who did not respond to drainage and antibiotics. This atypical course led to further workup which subsequently revealed a diagnosis of PHA.

Keywords: angiosarcoma; disseminated intravascular coagulation; liver; liver abscess; liver tumors.

Publication types

  • Case Reports