Large cell carcinoma of the lung metastatic to the mandibular gingiva

Although metastases of malignant tumors to the jaws are not unusual, metastases to the gingival soft tissues are relatively rare.

The clinicopathologic features of a metastatic tumor in the mandibular gingiva originating from lung cancer are described. The patient, a 61-year-old man, was admitted to the hospital with complaints of bloody sputum and chest pain while coughing. The patient's chest radiograph showed an abnormal mass in the left upper lobe. After admission, the patient noticed a swelling of the right mandibular gingiva. Histological and immunohistochemical analysis for tumors of the gingiva and the lung were performed.

Radiographic examination did not indicate involvement of the underlying bone. The histopathological findings showed that the gingival tumor consisted of a large cell carcinoma, and the mass of the upper lobe displayed the same histology as that found in the gingiva. Immunohistochemical investigation of the gingival tumor revealed similar results to those found in the mass of the lung. Based on the clinicopathologic findings, this case was diagnosed as primary lung cancer with the gingival tumor deemed metastatic. Multiple metastases were found in areas other than the oral cavity; radiation and chemotherapy for the gingival tumor were performed due to persistent bleeding and pain.

The resemblance of this gingival mass to an inflammatory lesion demonstrates the need for a detailed examination. This case also emphasizes the need to evaluate positive treatment needed to relieve complications in the mouth, even if the prognosis of the primary tumors remains unfavorable.