A Previously Unknown Hepatocellular Carcinoma Presenting with Rupture in a Previously Asymptomatic Patient: The Hidden Time Bomb Explodes, A Case Report

Authors

  • Inna Sekirov Vancouver Fraser Medical Program 2011, University of British Columbia, Vancouver BC
  • Carrie Yeung Vancouver Fraser Medical Program 2011, University of British Columbia, Vancouver BC
  • Allison C. Harris Vancouver General Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver BC
  • Jennifer Montis Vancouver General Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver BC
  • Albert Chang Vancouver General Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver BC
  • Eric M. Yoshida Vancouver General Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver BC

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma is the third leading cause of cancer-related death world-wide. Infection with hepatitis B virus is the strongest known risk factor for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma, especially in male patients. Regular surveillance is crucial for early detection of hepatocellular carcinoma, as in the absence of consistent follow-up, patients often present with advanced disease and sometimes with tumor rupture, which can have disastrous consequences. We present here a case report of a patient from a high risk demographic – an African male infected with hepatitis B virus – whose initial presentation of hepatocellular carcinoma was that of a tumor rupture. We highlight the non-specific nature of his presentation and the importance of high clinical suspicion for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients from high-risk groups. We highlight that in the absence of timely recognition of this malignancy, especially at its advanced stage, a patient’ s already scarce treatment options may become even more limited.

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Published

2011-06-09

Issue

Vol. 2 No. 2 (2011): Rural Medicine

Section

Case and Elective Reports