A chronic expanding hematoma (CEH) is a rare
clinicopathologic entity that may simulate the clinical and
radiologic presentation of soft tissue sarcomas. Etiology has
been attributed to repeated exudation and bleeding from
capillaries in granulation tissue, resulting in a gradually
enlarging mass. A 51-year-old male presented with a large
thigh mass following a gunshot wound one year prior.
Diagnostic imaging revealed a large complex mass with
cystic areas overlying cortical erosions in the femoral
diaphysis suggestive of osteomyelitis versus a primary
aggressive new growth. Biopsy confirmed CEH and the
absence of malignant cells. Hip disarticulation was
performed after noting massive necrosis of the thigh
compartments and neurovascular compromise. CEH is an
important differential diagnosis to be considered in a patient
with a slow-growing soft tissue mass and history of
significant trauma. Its similar clinical presentation with a
soft tissue sarcoma necessitates a high index of suspicion,
diagnostic imaging, and biopsy prior to performing
definitive surgery.