Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 21, 2026

10:01
Modeling Brain Metastasis by Internal Carotid Artery Injection of Cancer Cells
Published on: August 2, 2022
Summary
Meningeal carcinomatosis, a lung adenocarcinoma complication, can manifest as acute confusional state. This case highlights rapid neurological decline and the importance of cerebrospinal fluid analysis in diagnosing neoplastic meningitis.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Context:
- Presents a rare case of meningeal carcinomatosis as the initial manifestation of lung adenocarcinoma.
- Highlights the diagnostic challenge of neurological symptoms preceding a confirmed lung cancer diagnosis.
Purpose:
- To report a case of acute confusional state as the first symptom of meningeal carcinomatosis.
- To emphasize the utility of cerebrospinal fluid analysis in identifying neoplastic meningitis.
Summary:
- A 69-year-old man with adenocarcinoma of the lung presented with acute confusional state and neck pain, indicative of meningeal carcinomatosis.
- Cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealed neoplastic cells, confirming the diagnosis. Despite prompt readmission, the patient experienced rapid deterioration and died within five days.
Impact:
- Underscores the critical role of cerebrospinal fluid cytology in diagnosing leptomeningeal disease.
- Illustrates the potential for neurological symptoms to be the primary presentation of advanced lung cancer.
Related Concept Videos
Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction
Bacterial meningitis is a severe, life-threatening inflammation of the meninges, particularly the pia mater and arachnoid mater, affecting the subarachnoid space, ventricles, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). If untreated, it can lead to significant neurological complications or death.Causative AgentsCommon pathogens vary with age and immune status. In adults, major organisms include Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, and Haemophilus influenzae. Streptococcus agalactiae (group B...
Cryptococcal Meningitis
Cryptococcal meningitis is a life-threatening opportunistic infection predominantly associated with HIV/AIDS, accounting for over 100,000 deaths annually worldwide. However, it also affects individuals with other forms of immunosuppression, including those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy, organ transplant recipients, patients with innate immunodeficiencies, and individuals with hematological disorders. The infection is caused mainly by Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii,...
