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Published on: June 18, 2021
Subdural hematoma caused by epithelioid angiosarcoma originating from the skull
Yasuhiro Yamada1, Joji Inamasu, Shigeta Moriya
1Department of Neurosurgery, Fujita Health University Hospital School of Medicine, 1-98 Kutsukake, Toyoake, 458-0831, Japan.
Subdural hematoma (SDH) can rarely be caused by skull cancer. This case highlights angiosarcoma of the skull presenting as SDH, emphasizing the need for thorough examination of surrounding tissues for diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Metastatic cancers to the skull or dura can cause subdural hematoma (SDH), though infrequently.
- Underlying malignancies are typically known when SDH occurs in this context.
Observation:
- A 75-year-old man presented with sensorimotor disturbances following minor head trauma.
- Initial imaging revealed subdural hematoma (SDH), treated surgically.
- Recurrent SDH prompted a second surgery, revealing skull epithelioid angiosarcoma.
Findings:
- Histological examination of the initial surgery's bone flap and dura showed no abnormalities.
- The recurrent SDH was found to be caused by an epithelioid angiosarcoma originating from the skull.
- Biopsying surrounding tissues during the first surgery might have led to earlier diagnosis.
Implications:
- Subdural hematoma (SDH) can be an unusual presentation of primary skull or dural malignancies.
- Histological examination of surrounding tissues, beyond the hematoma capsule, is crucial for diagnosing rare tumors.
- Early diagnosis of skull angiosarcoma presenting as SDH is challenging but critical.
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