Metastatic uterine papillary serous carcinoma to the pericardium
P T Ramirez1, L M Ramondetta, T W Burke
1Department of Gynecologic Oncology, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA. peramire@mdanderson.org
Background:
Uterine papillary serous carcinoma is an aggressive tumor with a high propensity for distant spread. Metastases to the heart or pericardium are rare in gynecologic malignancies and usually fatal.
Case:
A 64-year-old African American woman was diagnosed with recurrent uterine papillary serous carcinoma metastatic to the pericardium. Her case at presentation was significant for an elevated serum CA-125, evidence of metastatic disease to the liver, and massive cardiomegaly. Cytologic analysis of fluid obtained by pericardiocentesis confirmed recurrence. Despite treatment with paclitaxel and a pleuropericardial window, the patient succumbed to her disease.
Conclusion:
The prognosis for patients whose recurrent uterine papillary serous carcinoma has metastasized to the heart or pericardium is extremely poor. Effective adjuvant and salvage therapies are essential.
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