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[Small cell carcinoma of the prostate]
Summary
This report details a rare case of small cell carcinoma of the prostate in a 24-year-old male, the youngest documented. Despite chemotherapy, the patient with high tumor markers expired, highlighting the aggressive nature of this rare prostate cancer.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Small cell carcinoma of the prostate is an exceptionally rare malignancy.
- Documented cases are limited, making each new report valuable for understanding its characteristics.
Observation:
- A 24-year-old male presented with symptoms of lumbago and dysuria, indicative of a retrovesical tumor.
- Imaging revealed a non-visualizing right kidney and left hydronephrosis, with CT scans suggesting a suspicious retrovesical mass.
- Biopsy confirmed an undifferentiated malignant tumor, with elevated serum Neuron Specific Enolase (NSE) and Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH).
Findings:
- Pathological examination identified the prostate mass and omental/mesenteric metastases as small cell carcinoma.
- Immunohistochemical stains were positive for NSE and chromogranin, confirming neuroendocrine differentiation.
- Chemotherapy with VP-16 and CDDP resulted in a minor response with decreased tumor markers, but the patient expired.
Implications:
- This case represents the youngest patient diagnosed with prostate small cell carcinoma.
- The findings underscore the aggressive behavior and poor prognosis associated with this rare prostate cancer, even in young individuals.
- Further research into the pathogenesis and treatment of neuroendocrine prostate cancers is warranted.