The haemophilic pseudotumour

The management of the patient with a haemophilic pseudotumour is complex and carries a high rate of potential complications. There are a number of therapeutic alternatives for this dangerous condition: embolization, radiation, percutaneous management, surgical removal and exeresis, and filling of the dead cavity. It is hoped that with the advent of widespread maintenance therapy, pseudotumours will be less common in the future. It is important that they are diagnosed early, and prevention of muscular haematomas is key to reducing their incidence. Untreated, proximal pseudotumours will ultimately destroy soft tissues, erode bone and may produce neurovascular complications. Surgical excision is the treatment of choice but should only be carried out in major haemophilia centres by a multidisciplinary surgical team.