Pulmonary large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) is an aggressive neoplasm with poor prognosis. Histologic diagnosis of LCNEC is not always straightforward. In particular, it is challenging to distinguish small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) or poorly differentiated carcinoma from LCNEC. However, histological classification for LCNEC as well as their therapeutic management has not changed much for decades. Recently, genomic and transcriptomic analyses have revealed different molecular subtypes raising hopes for more personalized treatment. Two main molecular subtypes of LCNEC have been identified by studies using next generation sequencing, namely type I with TP53 and STK11/KEAP1 alterations, alternatively called as non-SCLC type, and type II with TP53 and RB1 alterations, alternatively called as SCLC type. However, there is still no easy way to classify LCNEC subtypes at the actual clinical level. In this review, we have discussed histological diagnosis along with the genomic studies and molecular-based treatment for LCNEC.
A 51-year-old Japanese man who experienced colon cancer recurrence following primary and metastatic lesion resection was hospitalized due to facial cellulitis with febrile neutropenia and purpura on his lower extremities after chemotherapy. It was complicated by rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis. He was diagnosed with immunoglobulin A (IgA)-dominant endocapillary proliferative glomerulonephritis based on kidney histology. His glomeruli were positive for the nephritis-associated plasmin receptor, plasmin activity and galactose-deficient IgA1 (Gd-IgA1). A skin biopsy immunofluorescence study revealed IgA deposition within perivascular regions but no Gd-IgA1 deposition. The final diagnosis was IgA-dominant infection-related glomerulonephritis (IRGN). The patient's renal function returned to normal after receiving immunosuppressive therapy that consisted of a glucocorticoid and a cyclophosphamide. Immunosuppressive therapy should be considered in cases of IRGN if the patient's infection is completely under control.
Background
Alpha-fetoprotein-producing gastric cancer (AFPGC) is a rare type of aggressive gastric cancer (GC) with a dismal prognosis. We present a patient with AFPGC who achieved long-term survival through a multidisciplinary approach.
Case presentation
A 67-year-old man with advanced GC was referred to our hospital for systemic chemotherapy. He was diagnosed with cStage IVB AFPGC. During 2nd-line treatment, we could not control bleeding from the GC itself. After complete resection, during chemotherapy, portal venous tumor thrombi (PVTTs) and liver metastases were identified. With nivolumab followed by irinotecan, the PVTTs and liver metastases disappeared. Without immunotherapy and chemotherapy for 23 months, the patient has survived for 48 months so far with no recurrence of GC.
Conclusion
Long-term survival with AFPGC can be accomplished by using several different approaches, such as surgery, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy.
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