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Lymphangitic breast cancer in explanted lungs with interstitial lung disease: an unexpected finding
Giuseppe Maggioni1, Omar El Mnif1,2, Eleonora Faccioli1
1Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
Abstract:
A 60-year-old woman with end-stage fibrosing interstitial lung disease (ILD) underwent bilateral lung transplantation. Systematic histological analysis of the explanted lungs revealed extensive lymphangitic carcinomatosis and hilar lymph node metastases from a previously undiagnosed breast carcinoma. Retrospective imaging review identified a suspicious mammographic finding that had not been further investigated. The patient was later diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer and passed away at 12 months post-transplant.
Abstract:
This case emphasizes the challenging diagnosis of neoplasia in end-stage lung disease.
Abstract:
The incidence of malignancies in explanted lungs is approximately 1.65%, with metastatic cases being extremely rare.
Abstract:
This report underscores the importance of thorough histopathological evaluation of explant lungs, advocating for standardized examination protocols to improve the accuracy and depth of pathological diagnosis.
