https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9579-8320
Abstract
Purpose
Undifferentiated embryonal sarcoma of the liver (UESL) is a rare malignant lesion in adults. Here, we present an extremely rare case of UESL in a pregnant woman. However, this was the first case, wherein one surgery covered all the procedures needed to be performed, including delivery of the neonate, hysterectomy, and resection of the left liver lobe to ensure the safety of both the mother and the newborn.
Case Presentation
A 32-year-old woman at 37-weeks age of gestation was admitted at Bach Mai Hospital (Hanoi, Vietnam) due to epigastric pain, chest pain, and breathing difficulty. Blood tests showed an increased total alpha-fetoprotein level of 1085 ng/mL. Fetal ultrasound showed a fetal heart rate of 127 beats/minute, biparietal diameter of 92 mm, femur length of 70 mm, and fetal weight of 3287 g. Magnetic resonance imaging indicated a large tumor (12 × 14 × 18 mm) in the left liver, with organ signals increased on T2-weighted and decreased on T1-weighted. The mass was lobulated, developed along a downward pattern, and did not invade the portal vein. The surgeries performed were cesarean section, hysterectomy due to the inelasticity of the uterus, and left hepatectomy to ensure the safety of both the mother and newborn. The operation was performed safely and without any complications, and the patient was discharged from the hospital after 10 days.
Conclusion
This case report with distinct characteristics has been the first case ever reported in Vietnam, as well as in the literature. We believe that this case report will be useful for the clinical evidence pool and for educational purposes.
Abbreviations
MRI, magnetic resonance imaging; UESL, undifferentiated embryonal sarcoma of the live; AFP, alpha-fetoprotein; PIVKA-II, prothrombin induced by the absence of vitamin K or antagonist-II.
Data Sharing Statement
This case report contains clinical data from the medical records in the Bach Mai hospital. Additional information is available from the first author upon reasonable request.
Ethics Approval and Informed Consent
Writing and publishing this case report was approved by Bach Mai hospital.
Consent for Publication
Written informed consent was obtained from the patient for publication of this case report and the accompanying images. A copy of the written consent is available upon request.
Acknowledgment
The authors would like to thank our patients and her family for their support.
Author Contributions
All authors contributed to data analysis, drafting or revising the article, gave final approval of the version to be published, agreed to the submitted journal, and agreed to be accountable for all aspects of the work.
Disclosure
The authors declare that they have no competing interest.