Paclitaxel as neoadjuvant therapy for high grade angiosarcoma of the spleen: A brief report and literature review

Abstract

Introduction: Splenic angiosarcoma is a rare tumor with only a few cases reported in the literature. Surgical resection offers the best chance of cure for this aggressive neoplasm but is often precluded by infiltration of the tumor to surrounding critical structures. We report a case of a locally advanced angiosarcoma rendered operable by treatment with Paclitaxel monotherapy. Case presentation: A 69 year old female presented with a high grade splenic angiosarcoma, considered inoperable due to the extent of local spread. She received three cycles of single agent Paclitaxel and underwent a successful resection of the tumor. Conclusion: Chemotherapy options for splenic angiosarcoma are not well studied. Paclitaxel as monotherapy is a useful therapeutic option in down staging tumors, facilitating surgical resection and merits further study in clinical trials. © Publisher and licensee Libertas Academica Ltd.