Cardiac metastases and tumor embolization: A rare sequelae of primary undifferentiated liver sarcoma

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Primary hepatic sarcomas are uncommon malignant neoplasms; prognostic features, natural history, and optimal management of these tumors are not well characterized. PRESENTATION OF CASE This report describes the management of a 51-year-old patient that underwent a right trisectionectomy for a large hepatic mass found to be a liver sarcoma on pathology. He subsequently developed tumor emboli to his lungs and was discovered to have cardiac intracavitary metastases from his primary tumor. The patient underwent cardiopulmonary bypass and resection of the right-sided heart metastases to prevent further pulmonary sequela of tumor embolization. DISCUSSION The lack of distinguishing symptoms or imaging characteristics that clearly define hepatic sarcomas makes it challenging to achieve a diagnosis prior to pathologic examination. Metastatic spread is frequently to the lung or pleura, but very rarely seen within the heart. Failure to recognize cardiac metastatic disease will ultimately lead to progressive tumor embolization and cardiac failure if left untreated. CONCLUSION The most effective therapy for primary liver sarcomas is surgery; radical resection should be performed if possible given the aggressive nature of these tumors to progress and metastasize.