Metastatic small cell carcinoma of the endometrium: prolonged remission and possible cure following chemotherapy

A 54-year-old woman with inoperable metastatic small cell carcinoma (SCC) of the endometrium was treated with cisplatin and etoposide chemotherapy on the basis of the histologic similarity to pulmonary SCC. The response to treatment was monitored using serum neuron specific enolase (NSE) levels. A complete remission was obtained with resolution of symptoms and disappearance of the mass. The patient is alive and well 4(1/2) years later. Considering the aggressive behavior and short survival usually associated with this tumor and the presence of such advanced disease, a complete response to chemotherapy was unexpected. It would appear that chemotherapy should always be considered in the management of metastatic endometrial SCC, even in the presence of large-volume disease.