[Cutaneous angiosarcoma of the leg without lymphoedema]. / Angiosarcome cutané de jambe sans lymphoedème associé.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Cutaneous angiosarcoma is a rare aggressive vascular neoplasm with a poor prognosis, seen chiefly in elderly subjects and usually on the scalp or face. The present case is original because of its localization on the leg without any chronic lymphoedema and because of the long survival period. The treatment modalities are discussed. CASE REPORT An 87-year-old woman presented with a rapidly growing large deep-purple ulcerated tumour on the anterior aspect of the leg. In addition, two nodules with a similar aspect appeared on the outer surface of the foot. Histological examination showed vascular channels lined with atypical cells consistent with a diagnosis of angiosarcoma. Computed tomography revealed no metastases. Amputation was performed at the thigh and there was no recurrence 30 months later. DISCUSSION: The leg is a rare site of cutaneous angiosarcoma. Treatment usually consists of surgical excision with wide margins followed by radiotherapy, but in some cases amputation is unavoidable.