Spontaneous Regression of Bronchogenic Carcinoma; Twelve-Year Survival

Abstract

This report describes a man whose highly anaplastic epidermoid bronchogenic carcinoma, proved by biopsy at thoracotomy, vanished completely without surgical resection, irradiation, or any other treatment. He ultimately died, 12 years later, of still another primary neoplasm. Autopsy showed no residual lung cancer. This would appear to be unique in that there was initial pathologic proof of lung cancer and autopsy verification of its complete disappearance with no therapy.

Case Details

Personal Characteristics

A 63-year-old, white, married, male printer

Clinical Characteristics

A right hilar nodular mass; the right diaphragm seemed to be moderately elevated with restricted motion. A metastatic survey revealed no pertinent abnormality. With the clinical impression of bronchogenic carcinoma, a bronchoscopy was performed with no positive findings. No tumor cells were identified in the bronchial washings.

Remission Characteristics

Chest x-ray films of may 24, 1962, revealed no evidence of the previous hilar mass.

Treatment & Mechanisms

Proposed Remission Mechanisms

Not discussed

Clinical Treatment

A right exploratory thoracotomy was done which revealed no free fluid or adhesions. The peripheral lung was unremarkable. Within the hilum was a mass 6 centimeters in diameter which surrounded the right upper lobe bronchus. There was extension of this tissue around the pulmonary artery and involvement of the superior vena cava. Biopsies were taken from nodes along the superior vena cava. Frozen sections showed very anaplastic epidermoid carcinoma. On the basis of gross and microscopic findings the tumor was deemed unresectable.

Additional Notes

The patient ultimately died, 12 years later, of still another primary neoplasm. Autopsy showed no residual lung cancer.