Hemangiopericytoma

Also known as: HPC

What is a hemangiopericytoma?

Hemangiopericytoma (HPC) is a term used to describe a group of very rare, slow growing, benign or cancerous (can spread) tumors involving blood vessel capillaries and soft tissues. They can occur anywhere in the body but are most commonly found in the head and neck, brain, legs, and pelvis.

What causes hemangiopericytoma?

While the cause is unknown, genetic changes have been associated with some soft tissue sarcomas and there may be some relationship to certain environmental exposures such as herbicides or vinyl chloride.

What are the symptoms of hemangiopericytoma?

Because these tumors grow in areas that tend to be moveable and elastic, tumors may typically be present for a long time without causing any symptoms. If symptoms do occur, they depend on the location of the tumor, its size and whether it has spread or not. When present symptoms might include a lump or swelling, pain, difficulty walking or limping, neurological or lung problems.

What are hemangiopericytoma care options?

Surgery, radiation and/or chemotherapy are the treatments of choice. Your pediatric specialist will discuss with you all the best options for your child.

Reviewed by: Jack Wolfsdorf, MD, FAAP

This page was last updated on: July 26, 2021 03:59 PM