Angiosarcoma of the nasal cavity: a case report

Angiosarcomas are malignant neoplasias of rapid growth that develop from endothelial cells. They represent 2% of all sarcomas and only 1-4% are located in the aerodigestive tract.

Since 1977, only 16 cases have been reported. We present a 33-year-old male with spontaneous epistaxis that was refractory to cauterization.

During physical examination a smooth purplish tumor of 1.5 cm x 1.5 cm was identified. A CT scan showed a nonenhanced tumor in the left nostril on the uncinate process.

A biopsy revealed an intermediate-grade angiosarcoma. Surgical removal followed by radiation therapy was performed with good result.

Aerodigestive angiosarcomas have a better prognosis than angiosarcomas of other locations due to better cell differentiation and the presence of early symptoms. Recurrence can occur because of tumor tissue left during resection.

Our patient continues tumor free after three years.

Author: Jose L Trevino, Ramiro Santos, Baltazar Gonzalez, Vicente J Villagomez, Mario Villegas and Erving M Venegas
Credits/Source: Cases Journal 2009, 2:104

Published on: 2009-01-29

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