Angiosarcoma: A Rare Malignancy Linked to Chemical Exposures

Angiosarcoma is an exceptionally rare malignancy that accounts for less than 1% of all sarcomas. This case describes a 90-year-old male veteran who presented with a hematoma from a traumatic head injury. This then progressed to an ulcerated bleeding lesion that measured 2.5 cm in diameter with pearly borders and granulation tissue. CT scan of the head and skin biopsy were consistent with the diagnosis of cutaneous angiosarcoma. The patient may have unique exposures from the military training site Camp Lejeune including tetrachloroethylene (PCE), trichloroethylene (TCE), trans-1,2-dichloroethylene, and vinyl chloride predisposing to angiosarcoma. The patient underwent palliative radiation without obvious complications. This case presents an opportunity for further evaluation and understanding of the effects of these exposures and the implications for the health of veterans and aging populations. Patient outcomes may be improved with earlier diagnosis and aggressive treatment.