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Small Cell Lung Cancer Associated With Cystic Airspace: A Case Report and Literature Review
Hiroyuki Shimada1, Yukihisa Inoue1, Osamu Matsubara2
1Department of Respiratory Medicine Hiratsuka Kyosai Hospital Hiratsuka Japan.
Respirology Case Reports
|August 4, 2026
Summary
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is rarely found in cystic airspaces. This case report details a rare instance of SCLC arising from a cystic airspace, highlighting the need for vigilance in diagnosing lung nodules near cysts.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- Cystic airspaces are a known risk factor for lung cancer.
- Non-small cell lung cancers are common in cystic airspaces, but small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is rare.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of SCLC arising from a cystic airspace.
- To emphasize the importance of evaluating nodules adjacent to cystic airspaces.
Main Methods:
- A 72-year-old female smoker presented with an abnormal chest shadow.
- Computed tomography (CT) identified a cystic airspace with an adjacent nodule.
- Positron emission tomography-CT (PET-CT) showed high 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose uptake in the nodule.
- Surgical resection was performed for suspected primary lung cancer.
Main Results:
- Histopathological examination confirmed SCLC.
- The SCLC was found to arise from the wall of the cystic airspace.
Conclusions:
- Small cell lung cancer can, although rarely, originate from cystic airspaces.
- Nodules abutting cystic airspaces or thickened cyst walls require close follow-up and evaluation.
