SMARCA4-deficient undifferentiated tumor with high quality of life and far exceeding predicted survival: A case report
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Published on: May 18, 2018
Juan Lin1, Qi Ren1, Binbin Liu2
1Intensive Care Unit, Zhejiang Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
Rationale:
SMARCA4-deficient undifferentiated tumor (SMARCA4-UT) is a recently reported rare malignancy that can rapidly metastasize to tissues and organs throughout the body. The tumor is characterized by a lower response to platinum-based chemotherapy. More regrettably, the mean survival time of patients with this disease after diagnosis is only 4 to 7 months.
Patient Concerns:
A 58-year-old man was admitted to a hospital for fatigue, sudden syncope, and a mass-like shadow of his left upper lobe demonstrated by a pulmonary computed tomographic. Based on his subsequent clinical and pathological features, he was highly suspected of SMARCA4-UT.
Diagnoses:
Combined with next-generation sequencing genetic testing and immunohistochemical examination results, the patient was diagnosed with SMARCA4-UT.
Interventions:
The patient received a left upper lobectomy and lymph node dissection, four-course chemotherapy divided into 8 sessions with the use of paclitaxel simply, and a proper post-discharge self-care.
Outcomes:
The patient's operation and chemotherapy were all successful and he maintained a high quality of life after surgery that far exceeded his predicted survival.
Lessons:
Early diagnosis, higher education level, attention to the disease and complications, reducing chemotherapy damage, adequate nutrient intake, relieving symptoms, controlling depression, and maintaining immunity and the ability to perform activities of daily living may all be the positive factors that can prolong the survival of patients with SMARCA4-UT.
Insights
SMARCA4-deficient undifferentiated tumor (SMARCA4-UT) is a rare cancer with poor prognosis. This case report highlights successful treatment and factors that may prolong survival for SMARCA4-UT patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Rare Cancers
- Tumor Biology
Background:
- SMARCA4-deficient undifferentiated tumor (SMARCA4-UT) is a rare malignancy with rapid metastasis and poor response to chemotherapy.
- Patients diagnosed with SMARCA4-UT have a limited mean survival time of 4 to 7 months.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a case of SMARCA4-UT in a 58-year-old male patient.
- To discuss potential factors contributing to prolonged survival in SMARCA4-UT.
Main Methods:
- Diagnosis was based on clinical, pathological, next-generation sequencing, and immunohistochemical findings.
- The patient underwent left upper lobectomy, lymph node dissection, and paclitaxel chemotherapy.
Main Results:
- The patient's surgery and chemotherapy were successful.
- The patient maintained a high quality of life, exceeding predicted survival.
Conclusions:
- Early diagnosis and comprehensive management are crucial for SMARCA4-UT patients.
- Factors such as education, symptom management, and maintaining quality of life may improve survival outcomes.
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