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Carcinoma of unknown primary with hepatic metastases: a need of judicious and contemplative diagnostic algorithm

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Abstract

Carcinoma of Unknown Primary presenting primarily as hepatic metastases encompasses a dismal subgroup of tumors with a median survival of 5.9 months. Adenocarcinoma is the most common histological subtype identified upon biopsy and the primary tumor remains undetectable in the majority of cases despite extensive workup. It is important to have a validated and standardized algorithm to follow these tumors to avoid unnecessary tests, as the wishes and health status of the patient represent the principal concerns. The purpose of this paper is to briefly review the current literature on carcinoma of unknown primary with hepatic metastases and propose a standardized diagnostic approach.

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  1. Wake Forest University and Baptist Health, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA

    Vikram Sai Shivaji & Neeraj Lalwani

  2. University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA

    Joseph Charles Wilson

  3. University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland

    Noemi L. Schmidt

  4. University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA

    Orpheus Kolokythas

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  1. Vikram Sai Shivaji
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Shivaji, V.S., Wilson, J.C., Schmidt, N.L. et al. Carcinoma of unknown primary with hepatic metastases: a need of judicious and contemplative diagnostic algorithm. Abdom Radiol 46, 257–267 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00261-020-02630-3

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