Histopathological and CT Features of Pulmonary Sclerosing Haemangiomas

Abstract

AIM: To demonstrate the computed tomography (CT) features of pulmonary sclerosing haemangiomas. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Six pathologically proven sclerosing haemangiomas were included in this retrospective review. Patients consisted of five women and one man aged 20–54 years (mean, 34.5 years). Their CT features were recorded according to enhancement patterns and the presence of a tail sign, prominent pulmonary artery sign, air-trapping sign, presence of calcification or cystic spaces, consolidation, and interstitial infiltration. The predominant composition of an individual sclerosing haemangioma was documented by means of microscopy. RESULTS: Inhomogeneous enhancement was frequently present and depended on the various compositions of the tumours, especially those in sclerotic and predominantly papillary predominant types. The presence of a tail sign, intra-tumoural cystic areas, and a prominent artery sign were the frequent features in our cases. CONCLUSION: Sclerosing haemangioma should be considered in young or middle-aged female patients whose CT images show them having an inhomogeneous enhancing soft tissue mass with a smooth outline and with above the aforementioned features.