Primitive neuroectodermal tumor or small cell carcinoma of the kidney, a rare neoplasm: case report

Small cell carcinoma is a malignancy primarily recognized in the broncho-pulmonary region. Extrapulmonary locations are extremely uncommon. We report here a case of renal tumor encountered in a 34-year-old female, with extensive metastases in liver, lung and bone. Histological examination was most compatible with primitive neuro-ectodermal tumor (PNET) small cell carcinoma. There were negative immunohistochemcal markers for cytokeratin, any hormonal peptides and epithelial membrane antigens, which is consistent with the designation of the neoplasm as PNET. Previously reported cases have all been in the elderly and, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of proven PNET of the kidney described in a young female.