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Published on: July 28, 2020
Cardiac angiosarcoma treated with resection and adjuvant radiation therapy
Chenelle Slepicka1, Michael Durci
1Willis Knighton Medical Center, Louisiana State University-Shreveport, USA.
Summary
Primary cardiac angiosarcoma, a rare cancer, can aggressively metastasize despite initial surgical and radiation treatment. This case highlights the potential for late, widespread metastases in bone and retroperitoneum, necessitating palliative care.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Pathology
- Surgical Oncology
- Radiotherapy
Background:
- Primary cardiac angiosarcoma is a rare, aggressive malignancy.
- High metastatic potential often limits surgical options and prognosis.
- Early-stage right atrial angiosarcoma presents unique surgical challenges.
Observation:
- A 35-year-old woman with primary right atrial angiosarcoma underwent resection and radiotherapy.
- She remained symptom-free for eight months post-treatment.
- Extensive bone and retroperitoneal metastases developed without local recurrence.
Findings:
- Despite curative-intent treatment, late systemic metastasis occurred.
- Metastases appeared in bone and retroperitoneum, sparing the primary site.
- Palliative radiation was initiated for metastatic disease.
Implications:
- This case underscores the aggressive nature of cardiac angiosarcoma.
- Late metastatic patterns necessitate vigilant long-term surveillance.
- Multidisciplinary management is crucial for optimizing outcomes in rare cardiac tumors.
