Spontaneous Regression Of Infantile Hemangioendotheliomatosis Of The Liver; Demonstration By Ultrasound
Journal of Ultrasound in Medicine 1(9): Nov-Dec 1982; 349-353
View Original Source →Abstract
The author begins his investigation of spontaneous regression of cancer with the story of St. Peregrinus (See page 46.), and then presents brief synopses of cases that he has personally observed as well as those reported by others. He presents the case of Sister Gertrude who, it is reported, was cured of pancreatic cancer after the sisters of her order interceded with Mother Seton, deceased founder of the order. In a series of novenas, the sisters asked Mother Seton to spare the life of Sister Gertrude and she began to improve in health. She lived 7 1/2 years and died of a pulmonary embolism. At autopsy, no evidence of pancreatic cancer was found. The author reviews the book The Spontaneous Regression of Cancer, by Drs. Everson and Cole. Possible factors that may influence spontaneous regression are discussed. Some of the tantalizing reports regarding the successful use of imunology in cancer are also presented.
Case Details
Personal Characteristics
A 7 1/2-month-old healthy white male infant
Clinical Characteristics
Progressive distention of the abdomen over a two-week period, marked hepatomegaly, liver edge extending to the level of the umbilicus, abdominal girth of 52 centimeters, 1 centimeter cutaneous capillary hemangioma in the baby’s left arm
Remission Characteristics
On a follow-up examination eight months later, the hepatomegaly had improved markedly. The abdominal girth was noted to be 49 centimeters. Many of the previously noted lesions had disappeared, and those that remained were much less obvious.
Treatment & Mechanisms
Proposed Remission Mechanisms
Spontaneous regression
Clinical Treatment
An open liver biopsy was performed
Additional Notes
This paper presents the first ultrasonographic demonstration of such spontaneous regression in a child.