Cytologically diagnosed metastatic small cell lung carcinoma in the mandibular soft tissue

Metastatic tumors to the oral and maxillofacial region are relatively rare, they constitute 1% of all malignant tumors of the oral cavity. The purpose of this case report is to evaluate the efficiency of fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) in the diagnosis of metastatic small cell lung carcinoma. A 50-year-old female patient presenting with a 4x5 cm firm, hemorrhagic, tender swelling on the left mandibular bicuspid gingiva was evaluated. Her past medical history revealed a mass measuring 8x5 cm in the left pulmonary hilar area with pleural effusion, which was diagnosed as small cell lung carcinoma. A FNAC was performed to the oral mucosal swelling, and cytological examination revealed metastatic small cell lung carcinoma. The duration between diagnosis of the primary lung and development of metastasis was 6 months. The FNAC is a rapid, non-invasive, and safe diagnostic method when carried out with a proper technique, and proved to be a valuable adjunct to a careful physical and radiological examination of the oro-maxillofacial lesions.