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Initial Frontal Sinus and Orbit Tumor Signaling Late Distant Metastasis in Kidney Cancer
Bojan Pavlovic1,2, Sasa Jakovljevic2, Katarina Jovanovic2
1Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade.
Abstract:
Although metastases to the paranasal sinuses are exceedingly rare, when they do occur, renal clear cell carcinoma is the most frequent primary tumor involved. The aim of this work was to present a case of metastatic clear cell renal carcinoma in the frontal sinus and orbit region, 7 years after the initial diagnosis and treatment. The patient was referred to our clinic due to drooping of the left eyelid and displacement of the left eyeball. Computed tomography revealed an expansive lesion in the left frontal sinus and orbit, causing destruction of its anterior, lateral, and roof walls. Profuse bleeding from the tumor and left orbit hindered a comprehensive assessment of tumor extension into the orbit and residual tumor size. Therefore, complete tumor removal was not possible; instead, reduction was achieved. Subsequent histopathologic and immunohistochemical analysis confirmed the lesion as a metastasis of renal cell carcinoma in the sinonasal tract. Unfortunately, 10 weeks later, the patient passed away. Treatment of metastatic clear cell renal carcinoma depends on the localization of the disease as well as the overall condition of the patient. If there is a solitary metastatic lesion, as in the case of the sinonasal region, surgical treatment is recommended. Metastasis of clear cell renal carcinoma to the sinonasal region is a rare occurrence; however, it is essential to consider it in cases of rapidly growing tumor masses, typically presenting with symptoms such as epistaxis and nasal obstruction.
Insights
Metastatic renal clear cell carcinoma rarely affects the sinonasal tract. This case highlights a frontal sinus and orbit metastasis 7 years post-diagnosis, emphasizing the need for consideration in rapidly growing sinonasal tumors.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Otorhinolaryngology
- Pathology
Background:
- Metastases to the paranasal sinuses are rare, with renal clear cell carcinoma being the most common primary source.
- Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is an aggressive malignancy with a propensity for distant spread.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of metastatic ccRCC involving the frontal sinus and orbit.
- To discuss the clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, and management of sinonasal ccRCC metastasis.
Main Methods:
- Case presentation of a patient with a history of ccRCC.
- Diagnostic imaging (Computed Tomography) and histopathologic/immunohistochemical analysis.
- Surgical intervention for tumor debulking.
Main Results:
- A solitary metastatic lesion of ccRCC was identified in the left frontal sinus and orbit 7 years after initial treatment.
- The lesion caused significant bone destruction and presented with proptosis and ptosis.
- Complete tumor resection was not feasible due to profuse bleeding; debulking was performed.
Conclusions:
- Sinonasal metastasis from ccRCC, though rare, should be considered in patients with a history of renal cancer presenting with rapidly growing sinonasal masses.
- Early recognition and appropriate management, potentially including surgery for solitary lesions, are crucial.
- Despite treatment, the prognosis for extensive sinonasal ccRCC metastasis can be poor, as illustrated by the patient's outcome.
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