Management of abdominal hemophilic pseudotumor

The abdominal hemophilic pseudotumor is a rare but frequently disabling and life-threatening complication in patients with severe hemophilia. Our patients were observed for a considerable period of time to document progressive enlargement of the pseudotumor and increasing disability from severe pain, nerve compression, or leg swelling. The decision to operate was made on the basis of incapacitating symptomatology or fear of impending rupture. Although the complications resulting from operation may be major, with the current availability of large amounts of factor VIII and activated prothrombin complex concentrate, excision of this lesion can be performed without concern for the hazard of uncontrollable hemorrhage. Late recurrence of the pseudotumor may necessitate further operative management.