Retroperitoneal Leiomyosarcoma Associated with an Elevated β-HCG Serum Level Mimicking Extragonadal Germ Cell Tumor. (2000)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Froehner, Michael; Gaertner, Hans-Juergen; Manseck, Andreas; Oehlschlaeger, Sven; Wirth, Manfred P.
• Is Part Of: Sarcoma. Volume 4:Number 4(2000)
• Page Start: 179
• Page End: 181
• Publication Date: 2000
• Subjects: Sarcoma -- Periodicals; 616.994
• DOI: 10.1080/13577140020025904
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1357-714X

Abstract

Abstract : Patient. A 65-year-old man was admitted with a large primary retroperitoneal tumor and an increased β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-HCG) serum level. A germ cell tumor was suspected; however, a computed tomography-guided biopsy failed to enable tumor classification. After two courses of chemotherapy, the β-HCG serum level had returned to the normal level and a diagnostic laparotomy with incisional biopsy was performed. The immunohistochemical examination of the specimen identified the tumor as a retroperitoneal pleomorphic leiomyosarcoma. Discussion. Tumor markers play only a marginal role in the work-up of patients with soft tissue sarcomas. In men with suspected retroperitoneal sarcomas, however, the determination of germ cell tumor markers occasionally enables a preoperative distinguishing of primary retroperitoneal germ cell tumors with considerable consequences for management. In this setting, a retroperitoneal tumor associated with a moderately elevated β-HCG is a diagnostic dilemma, and surgeons should be aware of the pitfall of a β-HCG-producing leiomyosarcoma in the differential diagnosis.