Neuroembolization of metastatic Merkel cell cancer to the face for treatment of Kasabach-Merritt syndrome

J Neurointerv Surg. 2014 Jan;6(1):e3. doi: 10.1136/neurintsurg-2012-010556.rep. Epub 2013 Feb 5.

Abstract

Kasabach-Merritt syndrome is defined as a consumptive thrombocytopenia in the presence of a highly vascular tumor. Multiple treatment options, including transarterial embolization, have been described. We demonstrate that transarterial embolization is a viable option in the treatment of a rapidly progressive and debilitating Merkel cell tumor metastasizing to the head and neck presenting with Kasabach-Merritt syndrome.

Keywords: Embolic; Face; Metastatic; Platelets; Technique.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Carcinoma, Merkel Cell / complications
  • Carcinoma, Merkel Cell / diagnostic imaging
  • Carcinoma, Merkel Cell / therapy*
  • Embolization, Therapeutic / methods*
  • Face / blood supply*
  • Face / pathology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Kasabach-Merritt Syndrome / complications
  • Kasabach-Merritt Syndrome / diagnostic imaging
  • Kasabach-Merritt Syndrome / therapy*
  • Polyvinyl Alcohol / administration & dosage
  • Radiography
  • Skin Neoplasms / complications
  • Skin Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Skin Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Polyvinyl Alcohol