Tumoral Seeding of Hepatocellular Carcinoma after Microwave Ablation

Abstract

Tumoral seeding is defined as the implantation of viable tumor cells along the needle tract used in percutaneous diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. We present the case of a 75-year-old man who underwent microwave thermal ablation of a 35 mm hepatocellular carcinoma. Follow-up imaging at three months demonstrated complete necrosis of the treated lesion, with no evidence of residual or recurrent disease. In subsequent follow-up studies, tumor recurrence was detected, as well as a nodule within the right lower thoracic wall. The lesion was biopsied, confirming tumoral seeding along the needle tract.