Metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma to the heart

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Pathology
• Hepatobiliary Oncology

Background:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary liver malignancy.
• Cardiac involvement by HCC is exceptionally rare, posing diagnostic challenges.

Observation:

• A case of right ventricular heart mass is presented.
• The mass was cytologically diagnosed as hepatocellular carcinoma.
• Classic HCC cytologic features were identified, including trabecular patterns, endothelial cells, and intracytoplasmic hyaline bodies.

Findings:

• The tumor exhibited characteristic hepatocellular carcinoma cytology.
• Differential diagnosis for cardiac tumors was discussed.
• The patient survived surgical removal of the cardiac mass, with residual disease.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering HCC in cardiac masses, especially in patients with unknown primary tumors.
• Cytologic evaluation is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate patient management.
• Further research into rare metastatic patterns of HCC is warranted.