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RENAL CELL CARCINOMA METASTASIS TO THE SINONASAL CAVITY: CASE REPORT
Abstract:
Renal cell carcinoma accounts for 3% of all adult malignant tumors. Common sites of metastases are lungs, bone, liver, brain and adrenal glands. Metastatic disease to the head and neck ranges from 15% to 30%. The 5-year survival rate after nephrectomy is 60%-75%, but with multiorgan metastases the 5-year survival rate is significantly lower, 0-7%. A case is presented of a female patient diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma metastases to the paranasal sinuses, diagnosed and treated at the Department of ENT and Head and Neck Surgery, Zadar General Hospital, Zadar, Croatia. The tumor was surgically removed. Unfortunately, the patient died one year after the procedure due to multiorgan failure. Although metastases of renal cell carcinoma to the head and neck are very rare, it should be first suspected when investigating a metastatic tumor in this region. Surgical excision offers the best hope for long term survival. In case of unresectable tumor, other treatment options should be considered such as radiotherapy, immunotherapy and chemotherapy.
Insights
Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) rarely metastasizes to the head and neck. Early suspicion and surgical removal of metastatic RCC in this region offer the best chance for survival.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Head and Neck Surgery
- Medical Case Reports
Background:
- Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a significant malignancy, accounting for 3% of adult cancers.
- Metastatic spread is common, with head and neck involvement occurring in 15-30% of cases.
- Survival rates decrease dramatically with multiorgan metastases.
Observation:
- A rare case of a female patient with metastatic renal cell carcinoma to the paranasal sinuses is presented.
- The patient underwent surgical tumor removal at Zadar General Hospital.
- Despite treatment, the patient succumbed to multiorgan failure within a year.
Findings:
- Metastases of renal cell carcinoma to the head and neck are uncommon but should be considered in differential diagnoses.
- Surgical excision is the primary treatment modality for localized metastatic disease.
- Prognosis is poor with advanced or unresectable metastatic RCC.
Implications:
- Increased awareness of rare metastatic sites like the paranasal sinuses is crucial for timely diagnosis.
- Prompt surgical intervention can improve long-term survival for select patients.
- Multidisciplinary approaches including radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy are vital for unresectable cases.
