Cryo-recanalization in a case of carcinoid tumor - An interesting case report

The term "cryotherapy" comes from the Greek cryo (κρύο) meaning cold, and therapy (θεραπεία) meaning cure. Cryosurgery is the application of extreme cold to destroy abnormal or diseased tissue. Carcinoid tumors of the lung are a fascinating but uncommon group of pulmonary neoplasms. In the past, these tumors were grouped with benign or less aggressive malignant pulmonary tumors, namely bronchial adenomas. Recent studies have revealed that carcinoid lung tumors are the most indolent form of a spectrum of bronchopulmonary neuroendocrine tumors that, at its extreme, include small cell carcinoma of the lung as its most malignant member. They commonly present as endobronchial obstructions, and if complete, can be life-threatening and require immediate intervention.[1] Recently, we have treated a patient of carcinoid tumor of lung who was managed with cryo-recanalization with excellent response.