An Unusual Cause of Inguinal Mass in a Patient with Urolithiasis: A Case Report of Deep (Aggressive) Angiomyxoma in a Male Patient

Abstract

Background: Deep or aggressive angiomyxoma is an uncommon neoplasm of the pelvis. Although deep angiomyxoma is a benign tumor, its tendency to infiltrate soft tissues and reach a large size (typically > 10 cm) indicates aggressive biological behavior. It is usually present in female patients, but there have been recent reports of male-aggressive angiomyxoma. While rare, it is an important consideration in patients with a pelvic mass. The clinical presentation is non-specific; patients are either asymptomatic or present with non-specific complaints, such as dull pain, constipation, and dysuria. It is commonly mistaken for an inguinal hernia, hydrocele, testicular cancer, lipoma, and epididymal cyst in male patients, thus misguiding the management of these cases. Hence, preoperative evaluation with imaging studies (ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging) and biopsy allows for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. Currently, the standard of treatment is surgical resection of the tumor with free margins. The role of hormone therapy is under investigation for patients with deep angiomyxoma positive for estrogen/progesterone receptors. Regular follow-up is necessary given the high recurrence rate of deep angiomyxoma (9–72%). Methods: We present a case of an elderly man who presented with hematuria due to urolithiasis and an asymptomatic inguinal mass mimicking an inguinal hernia. A computed scan (CT) of the abdomen confirmed the presence of the mass, which was removed surgically. Results: The pathologic examination of the tumor was consistent with deep angiomyxoma. Conclusions: The diagnosis of deep angiomyxoma should always be considered in patients with an inguinal mass to avoid delayed treatment and incomplete surgical excision.