A case of undifferentiated embryonic liver sarcoma mimicking cystic hydatid disease in an endemic region of the world

Oral A., YİĞİTER M., DEMİRCİ E., YILDIRIM Z. K., Kantarci M., SALMAN A. B.

JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC SURGERY, vol.46, no.11, 2011 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 46 Issue: 11
  • Publication Date: 2011
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2011.07.006
  • Journal Name: JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC SURGERY
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Keywords: Embryonic sarcoma, Hydatid disease, Children, SEROLOGICAL TESTS, HEPATIC-TUMORS, DIAGNOSIS, CHILDHOOD, ECHINOCOCCOSIS, CHILDREN
  • Ataturk University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Undifferentiated embryonic liver sarcoma (UELS) is a rare highly malignant neoplasm that predominantly occurs in children between 5 and 10 years of age. The typical radiologic appearance on ultrasound and computed tomography of UELS shows a large septated mass having combined cystic and solid components. These radiographic features, however, are not specific to UELS and are shared by other more common and benign diseases of the liver. For example, cystic hydatid disease (CHD), caused by larvae of the Echinococcus tapeworm, is the most common indication for hepatic operations in children residing in endemic regions of the world. Undifferentiated embryonic liver sarcoma and CHD are 2 diseases that share overlapping presenting features of patient age, symptoms, and radiologic appearance. Surgeons who operate in Echinococcal endemic regions must be aware that not all hepatic cystic masses are necessarily CHD and may be other more rare malignant diseases such as UELS. (C) 2011 Published by Elsevier Inc.