Massive intraperitoneal hemorrhage due to spontaneous rupture of hepatocellular carcinoma: Case report

Abstract

Spontaneous rupture of a hepatocellular carcinoma is a very rare clinical event and preoperative diagnosis is difficult. We present a case of massive intraperitoneal hemorrhage secondary to spontaneous rupture of hepatocellular carcinoma, diagnosed by ultrasonography and peritoneal lavage. Laparotomy and tumor resection was performed, but the patient died on the 11th day postoperatively due to multiple organ dysfunction. This case is presented to remind the reader that spontaneous rupture of hepatocellular carcinoma may cause intraperitoneal hemorrhage even in patients with no prior history of chronic liver disease.