Dedifferentiated liposarcoma of the spermatic cord: Case report and review of literature

Abstract

Introduction: Malignant spermatic cord tumors have an annual incidence of 0.3 cases/million. The vast majority of tumors in this region are benign. We present a rare case of a dedifferentiated liposarcoma of the spermatic cord successfully treated.

Presentation of case: A 59-year-old gentleman presented complaining of an enlarging painful right groin mass. On exam there was an obvious 10 cm inguinal mass. Imaging illustrated a right inguinal soft tissue mass that was not present on imaging 22 months prior. The patient underwent a right inguinal exploration, en bloc resection of the mass, and radical orchiectomy to ensure negative margins. Histopathological analysis revealed a grade 2 dedifferentiated liposarcoma that measured 9 × 6 × 5 cm, with 5 cm negative margins. The patient did well and was discharged on postoperative day one. On 6-month follow-up there was no evidence of recurrence.

Discussion: We present a rare dedifferentiated liposarcoma of the spermatic cord that was successfully treated with surgical resection. This case highlights the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion coupled with a thorough history and physical examination when encountering an enlarging inguinal mass. This rare pathology is lacking level one evidence-based standardized treatment algorithms. The mainstay of treatment is surgical resection.

Conclusion: For spermatic cord liposarcomas, the surgical approach is en bloc resection with radical orchiectomy aiming for R0 margins. Prognosis depends on tumor grade, anatomic site, and the ability to achieve a microscopically tumor negative resection. Despite our patient's disease free status, prolonged surveillance with physical examination and cross sectional imaging is still warranted.

Keywords: Liposarcoma; Patients centered outcomes; Radical orchiectomy; Surgical oncology.