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Published on: October 13, 2023
Radiological Detection of a Pulmonary Artery Pseudoaneurysm in Lung Adenocarcinoma: A Rare Association and a Case
Corey Mumaw1, Yael Levy1, Sarah Quinn1
1School of Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, USA.
Abstract:
Pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysm (PAP) is a rare and potentially life-threatening vascular abnormality that is commonly associated with infections, such as tuberculosis. However, their occurrence in the setting of lung adenocarcinoma is exceedingly rare. We report a case of a 67-year-old man with stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who had a pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysm incidentally detected on follow-up maintenance imaging. The pseudoaneurysm was contiguous with pulmonary artery branches in the right lower lobe and associated with a progressively enlarging necrotic tumor region, suggesting that vascular invasion contributed to its formation. The patient was not experiencing any complications or hemoptysis at the time of identification; however, the pseudoaneurysm was deemed at risk for rupture and was successfully treated with coil embolization. This case highlights the importance of closely monitoring for vascular abnormalities in malignancy and early intervention to prevent potentially fatal complications.
Insights
Pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysms are rare in lung cancer. This case shows a pseudoaneurysm linked to lung adenocarcinoma, emphasizing monitoring and early intervention for vascular risks in cancer patients.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Thoracic Oncology
- Interventional Radiology
Background:
- Pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysms (PAPs) are rare vascular lesions, often linked to infections like tuberculosis.
- PAPs associated with lung adenocarcinoma are exceptionally uncommon, posing diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
Observation:
- A 67-year-old man with stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) developed an incidentally detected PAP.
- The pseudoaneurysm was contiguous with right lower lobe pulmonary artery branches and a necrotic tumor, suggesting vascular invasion.
Findings:
- The patient presented without hemoptysis or immediate complications, but the PAP posed a rupture risk.
- Successful treatment was achieved via coil embolization, a minimally invasive interventional radiology procedure.
Implications:
- This case underscores the necessity of vigilant surveillance for vascular abnormalities in cancer patients.
- Early detection and intervention for PAPs in the context of malignancy can prevent life-threatening rupture events.
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