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Hemangiopericytoma is a rare type of vascular tumor that can be malignant or benign. It can occur in various parts of the body and can cause different symptoms. Surgery is the most common treatment, but radiation and chemotherapy may also be used.
A hemangiopericytoma (HPC) is a type of vascular tumor. It is very rare and can be malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous). Hemangiopericytomas are classified as soft tissue sarcomas. This type of tumor is produced in tendons, fat, blood vessels, muscles, fibrous tissue and nerves. Most commonly, the cancer is found in the bones, neck, head, and lower extremities.
Individuals of any age and gender can develop a hemangiopericytoma. Generally, this tumor comes from cells in connection with capillaries, known as pericytes. While there is no identifiable reason why this type of tumor forms, certain factors may play into their formation. It can develop from one type of genetic mutation. If multiple members of a family develop cancers, they can also be inherited.
The symptoms of a hemangiopericytoma can depend on where the tumor is located. Individuals with lower extremity cancer may experience pain. They may be sore in some areas and have difficulty using the part of the body affected by the tumor. If the growth is large enough, even a noticeable lump may be visible.
A malignant hemangiopericytoma can metastasize to other parts of the body. Most commonly, it spreads to the lungs. Individuals with tumors in this location can experience different types of symptoms. He or she may have difficulty breathing. The person may also have a persistent cough and experience excessive sweating at night.
A biopsy may be conducted to confirm a hemangiopericytoma and to determine whether or not it is cancerous. Commonly, blood tests will be done, including a complete blood count (CBC) to look at your blood. You can also run diagnostic imaging scans. For visible lower extremity tumors, a bone scan may be ordered. Other tests may include a computed tomography (CT) scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Surgery is commonly performed to treat this rare tumor. In malignant cases, surgery may be performed to remove as much of the cancer as possible. Benign tumors can also be removed surgically. Doctors will complete a series of tests to decide the best type of surgery to perform. Generally, this will depend on the size, location, and symptoms caused by the hemangiopericytoma.
Often, a patient may receive other types of treatment before, after, or instead of surgery. Radiation can be given as a form of treatment to individuals with a malignant hemangiopericytoma. Additionally, chemotherapy may be prescribed. Individuals with large malignant tumors may have these types of treatments to shrink the tumors before going into surgery. People with very small but malignant tumors may have these types of therapy as a sole treatment.
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