4/10/2020
E-Library - Information At Your Fingertips: Printer Friendly
Large soft tissue mass of the anterior left thigh, as described. Considerations
include neoplasm such as benign/malignant nerve sheath tumor,
hemangioma, soft tissue sarcoma or inflammatory process such as
intramuscular abscess.[11]
The Pathology Report of the MMC also showed the following: “Left anterior thigh mass
excision: Malignant fibrous histiocytoma, myxoid type. Margins of resection negative for
tumor.”[12]
On February 27, 2007, OSG Manila certified David’s entitlement “to sickness allowance
from the company or principal equivalent to basic salary of member.”[13]
On March 2, 2007, Dr. Christopher Co Peña (Dr Peña), also of MMC, wrote Dr. Lim,
informing the latter of the etiology of soft tissue sarcoma, viz:
The following are the etiology of soft tissue sarcoma:
1. Ionizing radiation
2. Genetic predisposition
3. Chemical exposure – Phenoxyacetic acid, cholorophenols, thorotrast,
vinyl chloride, arsenic
4. Chronic lymphedema
Whether work-related or not will depend on the exposure of the above
mentioned factors.[14]
On March 5, 2007, the Marine Medical Services of MMC certified that David had
undergone medical and surgical evaluation treatment at its establishment from
December 21, 2006 due to “malignant fibrous histiocytoma, left thigh calcaneal spur,
left; s/p with excision of mass left thigh.”[15]
Apparently as a result of another inquiry regarding David’s illness and its relation to his
work, Dr. Peña again addressed a letter to Dr. Lim stating:
Dear Dr. Lim,
This is with regards to Mr. Jessie David, diagnosed case of Malignant Fibrous
Histiocytoma last February 2007. S/P Resection. Etiology has already been
mentioned in my previous letter dated March 2, 2007. It is difficult to
determine exactly whether his work history would have bearing as etiology
is multifactorial. Unless there is documented exposure to the previously
mentioned chemicals.[16]
Despite the non-conclusive findings of the company designated physician and Dr. Peña,
elibrary.judiciary.gov.ph/thebookshelf/showdocsfriendly/1/55191
2/12