Spontaneous Regression Of Pulmonary Metastases From Renal Adenocarcinoma Before Nephrectomy
British Journal of Surgery 74(1): Jan 1987; 69-70
View Original Source →Abstract
Spontaneous disappearance of multiple pulmonary metastases of hypernephroma is rare, but several cases have been reported. A case of spontaneous disappearance of pulmonary metastases following nephrectomy is reported. In addition to the case reported in this article, the authors have seen 2 patients with solitary lung shadows interpreted as metastatic tumor by the radiologist. In both cases the shadow disappeared after nephrectomy for hypernephroma.
Case Details
Personal Characteristics
A 57-year-old man with intermittent claudication, hypertension and proteinuria
Clinical Characteristics
Hepatomegaly, pulmonary metastases, hemoglobin of 10.4 gm/dl, white cell count of 12.5 x 109/l, esr 125 mm/hour, albumin 21 gm/l, globulin 46 gm/l, alkaline phosphatase 343 units/l, right kidney displacement, renal mass, spontaneous regression of pulmonary metastases, haemoglobin of 16 gm/dl, esr 12 mm/hour, white cell count 11x 109/l, albumin 29 gm/l, normal liver function, renal adenocarcinoma with extensive necrosis, single round opacity in left midzone
Remission Characteristics
Spontaneous regression of pulmonary metastases, normal liver function
Treatment & Mechanisms
Proposed Remission Mechanisms
Not discussed
Clinical Treatment
Right nephrectomy
Additional Notes
The patient had no history of chest disease or exposure to tuberculosis. A CT scan of thorax was not carried out. Liver scanning using isotope and ultrasound techniques demonstrated no parenchymal abnormality.