Nodular vasculitis associated with lung adenocarcinoma

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Nodular vasculitis, previously known as erythema induratum of Bazin, is an uncommon inflammatory condition affecting the skin's small and medium-sized blood vessels.
• Historically associated with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, nodular vasculitis is now recognized as potentially linked to various underlying systemic disorders.
• The association between nodular vasculitis and malignancy is rare, with only one prior case reported involving metastatic colon adenocarcinoma.

Observation:

• A patient presented with nodular vasculitis as the primary clinical manifestation.
• Diagnostic investigations revealed an underlying primary lung adenocarcinoma.

Findings:

• This case represents the first documented instance of nodular vasculitis preceding the diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma.
• The findings suggest a potential, previously unrecognized paraneoplastic link between nodular vasculitis and lung adenocarcinoma.

Implications:

• This report expands the spectrum of potential paraneoplastic syndromes associated with lung cancer.
• Clinicians should consider underlying malignancy in patients presenting with idiopathic nodular vasculitis, particularly lung adenocarcinoma.
• Further research is warranted to explore the pathogenetic mechanisms potentially linking nodular vasculitis and lung adenocarcinoma.