Alpha-Fetoprotein-Producing Hepatoid Adenocarcinoma of the Stomach.

Abstract

Hepatoid adenocarcinoma of the stomach (HAS) is a rare type of gastric cancer with unique clinicopathological features. HAS has a poor prognosis because of early liver, lung, and lymph node metastasis. Owing to its rarity and malignant potential, data on its pathophysiology and management are scarce. Herein, we describe a case of alpha-fetoprotein-producing HAS (AFP-HAS) with metastases to the liver, lungs, and spine. The patient presented with a 3-month history of epigastric pain and intractable emesis, initially thought to be gastroparesis given her uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. Contrast-enhanced computerized tomography (CECT) of the abdomen and pelvis revealed thickening of the gastric wall with hepatic metastases. Upper endoscopy revealed a fungating gastric mass, and the histopathology confirmed AFP-HAS. The patient did not tolerate palliative chemotherapy and died 6 months after her gastric cancer diagnosis.