Recurrent Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma of Calcaneum: A Case Report of a Rare Tumor

Abstract

Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE) is an uncommon malignant vascular tumor characterized by epithelioid or histiocytoid endothelial appearance. Here we present the case of a 65-year-old female with recurrent EHE of the left calcaneum. The patient had developed soft-tissue swelling over the lateral aspect of the left hindfoot three years ago, which was previously managed by excisional biopsy as per medical records and the histopathological examination (HPE) had revealed an EHE. A year later, she again developed a painful swelling with superficial ulceration over the same region and presented to us. A plain radiograph of the foot showed a soft-tissue swelling with cortical breach over the lateral aspect of calcaneum. MRI revealed a mass encasing peroneus tendons, with extension into the lateral surface of calcaneum. CT angiography revealed a mass eroding the lateral cortex of calcaneum and receiving blood supply from calcaneal branches of peroneal artery. PET-CT scan did not reveal any other primary or metastatic site. Core needle biopsy of calcaneum was suggestive of EHE. Limb salvage was difficult as the tumor was recurrent and involved the skin and the weight-bearing part of the calcaneum. The patient was managed with transtibial amputation. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining of the excised tissue was positive for CD34, Vimentin, SMA, and Fli-1. The margins were negative for any tumor cells and she did not require any adjuvant therapy. At two years follow-up, she was free of any further recurrence or metastasis. Recurrent tumors of this variety are fast-growing with metastatic potential and may cause mortality. Hence, they need to be managed aggressively.