A Rare Case Report of Histiocytic Sarcoma: Diagnostic Challenges and Management

Abstract

Histiocytic sarcoma (HS) constitutes a rare neoplasm with marked aggressiveness that often mimics Hodgkin™s lymphoma or other neoplasms, creating significant diagnostic challenges. The diagnostic approach in this case included chest computed tomography, transthoracic biopsy, and video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) for tissue sampling, followed by histopathology and immunohistochemistry. A 22-year-old female presented with persistent right back pain; imaging revealed a posterior lung mass, and initial biopsy suggested Hodgkin™s lymphoma. This case illustrates the limitations of small biopsies, the critical role of VATS in securing adequate specimens, and the necessity of immunohistochemistry for diagnostic accuracy. Early and precise identification of HS is essential to guide management of this rare, aggressive tumor and to improve patient outcomes, underscoring the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration and advanced diagnostic tools.