Hemangiopericytoma–solitary fibrous tumor of the pleura in a 47-year-old man: a rare case report

Abstract

Hemangiopericytoma (HPC), classified under solitary fibrous tumors (SFT), is a rare mesenchymal neoplasm originating from pericytes. While HPCs account for approximately 3% of all soft tissue sarcomas, their occurrence in the lungs and pleura is infrequent. We report the case of a 47-year-old male who presented with progressive shortness of breath since January 2023, exacerbated with activity. Additional symptoms included productive cough, left-sided chest pain, appetite loss, and weight loss over the past month. Radiological examination showed a left pleural mass accompanied by pleural effusion.. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry confirmed the diagnosis of HPC-SFT, with positive staining for vimentin. The patient underwent 25 sessions of radiotherapy and was referred to thoracic surgery for planned en bloc tumor resection. Pulmonary HPCs are rare cases with nonspecific clinical symptoms and imaging features. Histopathological examination remains the gold standard for diagnosis. Surgical resection remains the mainstay of treatment, with radiotherapy or chemotherapy considered in metastatic cases. Prognosis depends on complete resection and tumor histology. This case highlights a rare presentation of pleural HPC-SFT in a middle-aged male, and emphasizes the importance of comprehensive diagnostic and multidisciplinary management approaches for optimal outcomes.