Primary Hepatic Angiosarcoma: A Rare Liver Malignancy – Varying Manifestations but Grave Prognosis

Abstract

Primary hepatic angiosarcoma (PHA) is a rare mesenchymal liver tumor, accounting for 0.1–2% of primary liver malignancies. The clinical presentations of PHA are variable, from asymptomatic to liver failure or complicated with tumor rupture. The diagnosis of PHA is difficult due to the lack of specific clinical manifestation and investigation results, which can be confused with other liver tumors resulting in late diagnosis. However, there is currently a paucity of effective therapeutic approaches. We advocate early diagnosis with radiological imaging and histopathology because most of them are diagnosed in late-stage and carry a grave prognosis. Surgical resection remains the mainstay of treatment, which can significantly prolong survival. Chemotherapy, including transarterial chemoembolization, is an option for palliative treatment. Unfortunately, molecular treatment has limited efficacy and liver transplantation is also not recommended due to high rate of recurrence. We present a case series of four patients with biopsy-proven PHA which had distinct presentations and clinical courses.

Keywords

• primary hepatic angiosarcoma
• hepatic angiosarcoma
• intra-tumoral hemorrhage