Hemothorax due to metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma presenting with massive hemoptysis.

Abstract

Hemoperitoneum caused by ruptured hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is not uncommon in patients with HCC. Hemothorax due to rupture of metastatic HCC, however, is a very rare complication with high mortality because of uncontrollable hemorrhage. We describe a 42-year-old male HCC patient with chest wall metastasis complicated by hemothorax with an unusual presentation of massive hemoptysis. He received tube thoracotomy immediately and emergency surgery because of persistent bleeding. Hemostasis was achieved transiently. Despite intensive care, he died of multiple organ failure on the 6th postoperative day. We conclude that hemothorax due to a ruptured HCC, as in this case, indicates a very poor prognosis despite intensive treatment.

• Authors: Yu-Feng Wei, Hao-Chien Wang, Yi-Chen Chang
• Journal: Journal of the Formosan Medical Association = Taiwan yi zhi (J Formos Med Assoc) Vol. 105 Issue 4 Pg. 346-8 (Apr 2006) ISSN: 0929-6646 [Print] Singapore
• PMID: 16618616 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Topics

• Adult
• Carcinoma, Hepatocellular (complications, secondary)
• Fatal Outcome
• Hemoptysis (etiology)
• Hemothorax (etiology)
• Humans
• Liver Neoplasms (pathology)
• Male
• Thoracic Neoplasms (complications, secondary)