Fatal Bladder Carcinoma in Woman with Human Immunodeficiency Virus: A Case Report

Abstract

Background: Chronic human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is associated with an increased incidence of Non-Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (non-AIDS) defining cancers. To date, only a limited number of cases of bladder cancer have been linked with HIV infection in women. We sought to describe the clinical characteristics of HIV-associated bladder cancer. Methods: A 54-year-old female patient presented with symptoms of an occlusive syndrome. Medical examination was followed by a CT scan. The imaging revealed a significant finding. There was a noticeable process within the bladder. Further evaluation and management were recommended. Results: Spontaneous urinary cytology revealed the presence of malignant cells. An endoscopy was performed under spinal anesthesia, uncovering a large sessile tumor with necrotic areas located on the ventral aspect and dome of the bladder. Due to the severity of the condition, a palliative resection was carried out. Subsequent histological examination identified the tumor as a high-grade urothelial carcinoma, with evidence of muscle invasion. This diagnosis confirmed the aggressive nature of the disease, highlighting the necessity for further medical management and intervention. Conclusion: Bladder cancers in HIV-infected patients are rare but can occur in relatively young individuals with a low nadir CD4 cell count. These cancers often exhibit aggressive pathological features and can be fatal.