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.

PubMed

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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