Diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in hepatic epithelioid hemangioendothelioma

J Gastrointest Cancer. 2012 Dec;43(4):521-5. doi: 10.1007/s12029-012-9389-y.

Abstract

Background: Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma is a very rare, low-grade vascular tumor known to arise in soft tissues and visceral organs. Clinical diagnosis of hepatic epithelioid hemangioendothelioma remains a challenge, and although it is frequently managed with a liver transplant due to its multifocal nature, recurrence is a common complication.

Methods: We review recent advances in the diagnosis of hepatic epithelioid hemangioendothelioma, including major genetic breakthroughs, and discuss efforts to reduce post-liver transplant recurrence of hepatic epithelioid hemangioendothelioma.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Hemangioendothelioma, Epithelioid / diagnosis*
  • Hemangioendothelioma, Epithelioid / genetics
  • Hemangioendothelioma, Epithelioid / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Liver Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Liver Neoplasms / genetics
  • Liver Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Liver Transplantation
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / prevention & control