Bilateral Pneumothorax in a Patient With Angiosarcoma of the Scalp

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

5-2024

Publication Title

American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine

Abstract

Introduction: Angiosarcoma is a rare, aggressive vascular malignancy arising from endothelial cells. This case report highlights the unique presentation of angiosarcoma with a focus on its initial manifestation. Angiosarcoma remains a diagnostic challenge due to its rarity, and its association with spontaneous pneumothorax is seldom reported in medical literature. Description of Case: A 63-year-old male presented to the emergency department with sudden-onset bilateral chest pain and shortness of breath persisting for 2days. On examination, a scalp lesion was seen which had been increasing in size over the last 6 weeks. The lesion was 8 x 10 cm in size with an irregular border, non-tender, violet and dome-shaped in elevation on the right occipito-parietal lobe of the skull. Chest computed tomography revealed multiple cystic lesions, patchy ground-glass opacities, nodules of variable sizes, and bilateral pneumothorax. Bilateral tube thoracostomy was performed which provided symptomatic relief for shortness of breath. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL)was negative for infection. He underwent biopsy of scalp lesion which was positive for aggressive angiosarcoma. Discussion: This case underscores the importance of considering angiosarcoma as a differential diagnosis in patients presenting with unexplained pneumothorax and concurrent skin lesions. Early recognition and prompt management are crucial to prevent diagnostic delays and improve patient outcomes. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for angiosarcoma when evaluating patients with spontaneous pneumothorax and associated cutaneous findings.

Volume

209

Issue

Suppl

First Page

A7495

Comments

International Conference of the American Thoracic Society, May 17-22, 2024, San Diego, CA

DOI

10.1164/ajrccm-conference.2024.209.1_MeetingAbstracts.A7495

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS