Spontaneous Regression (cure?) Of A Malignant Tumor Of Bone
Cancer 10(2): March-April 1957; 377-381
View Original Source →Abstract
A microscopically proved and radiologically confirmed malignant tumor of the humerus has healed spontaneously. Roentgenograms taken four years after the onset of symptoms demonstrate complete healing of the bone, and the patient is free of disease. There has been no therapeutic modality used, and an explanation of the cure has not been uncovered. The microscopic sections were submitted to many prominent pathologists, all of whom made an unequivocal diagnosis of malignant tumor, although there was considerable disagreement in naming the cellular type of the tumor.
Case Details
Personal Characteristics
The patient, a 29-year-old white woman
Clinical Characteristics
The patient noted the gradual onset of pain in the left shoulder in june or early july of 1952. There was an acute exacerbation of the pain, followed by rapid swelling of the arm. The pain and most of the swelling subsided in a few days, leaving the arm bowed laterally. A large, firm, tender mass encircled the humerus, and there was questionable enlargement of the axillary nodes.
Remission Characteristics
Roentgenograms taken four years after the onset of symptoms demonstrate complete healing of the bone, and the patient is free of disease.
Treatment & Mechanisms
Proposed Remission Mechanisms
Not discussed
Clinical Treatment
A hanging cast was applied and the patient discharged.
Non-Clinical Treatment
The patient refused all forms of definitive therapy.
Additional Notes
The microscopic sections were submitted to many prominent pathologists, all of whom made an unequivocal diagnosis of malignant tumor, although there was considerable disagreement in naming the cellular type of the tumor.