A Large Haemangioma Mimicking Soft Tissue Sarcoma over the Chest Wall: An Oncological Surprise

Abstract

Haemangiomas are tumours which takes origin from blood vessels. Extremities are most common site for occurrence of haemangiomas. Chest wall haemangiomas are rare and they may mimic soft tissue sarcoma. Biopsy or attempt of surgical excision before imaging may lead to bleeding which can be life threatening. A 40-year-old male patient presented to the Outpatient Department (OPD) with large, painless swelling on the left side of back. On examination, 25×15 cm non tender, firm in consistency swelling was noted which was fixed to underlying muscle. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) showed multiple dilated sinuses with blood suggestive of haemangioma/arteriovenous malformation. Patient underwent excision of haemangioma without any complication. Histopathological examination showed thin-walled blood vessels with proliferating vascular space separated by fibrous stroma suggestive of capillary haemangioma. Patient had no recurrence after one year follow-up.

Keywords

• arteriovenous malformation
• congenital
• feeding vessel