Squamous cell carcinoma arising from pulmonary hamartoma

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Pulmonary hamartomas are common benign lung tumors.
• Malignant transformation into adenocarcinoma or sarcoma has been suggested but rarely reported.
• This case explores a novel malignant transformation pathway.

Observation:

• A 62-year-old woman presented with a lung mass initially considered benign.
• ¹⁸FDG PET/CT showed heterogeneous uptake, with hypermetabolism in one part and low uptake in another.
• This metabolic difference suggested distinct tissue components within the mass.

Findings:

• Surgical resection and pathological examination revealed a combined squamous cell carcinoma and hamartoma.
• This is the first documented case of squamous cell carcinoma arising from a pulmonary hamartoma.
• The findings challenge previous understandings of hamartoma malignant potential.

Implications:

• Pulmonary hamartomas may have a greater malignant potential than previously recognized.
• Clinicians should consider the possibility of malignant transformation, including squamous cell carcinoma.
• Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms and frequency of hamartoma malignant transformation.