Related Experiment Videos
Synchronous bilateral typical pulmonary carcinoid tumors
Morris Beshay1, Thierry Roth, Robert Stein
1Division of General Thoracic Surgery, University Hospital, 3010 Berne, Switzerland.
Summary
This study reports the first case of synchronous pulmonary carcinoid tumors in a 73-year-old woman, successfully treated with surgical resection. The patient achieved a complete recovery, demonstrating the curability of these rare, bilateral lung carcinoids.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Thoracic Surgery
- Oncology
Background:
- Pulmonary nodules can represent various pathologies, including metastatic disease or primary lung tumors.
- Carcinoid tumors are rare neuroendocrine neoplasms of the lung, typically presenting as a single lesion.
Observation:
- A 73-year-old woman presented with bilateral pulmonary nodules, initially suspected as metastases.
- Histological examination of a right upper lobe lesion confirmed a typical carcinoid tumor.
- An octreotide scan indicated a suspicious lesion in the left lower lobe.
Findings:
- Synchronous bilateral pulmonary carcinoid tumors were diagnosed.
- Staged surgical resection (right upper lobectomy and left lower lobectomy) was performed.
- One-year follow-up CT scan showed no evidence of recurrent or new lesions.
Implications:
- This case represents the first documented instance of curable synchronous pulmonary carcinoid tumors.
- Highlights the importance of thorough investigation for bilateral lesions, even when suspected as metastases.
- Suggests surgical management can be curative for synchronous pulmonary carcinoids.