Clear cell ''sugar'' tumors of the lung are rare pulmonary tumors. This case study illustrates a patient who was found to have a persistent nodule in the left-upper lobe of the lung. Positron emission tomographic scanning showed mild-moderate 18-fluorodeoxyglucose uptake. Based on these findings, a video-assisted resection of the tumor was undertaken. The mass was identified histologically, as a clear cell ''sugar'' tumor of the lung. This case report discusses the benign versus malignant nature of this rare tumor.Key words: Clear cell sugar tumor -Rare tumor -Lung tumor -Incidentaloma L ung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death in industrialized countries. Early discovery is an important factor for survivability. With only a limited number of cases reported, 1 clear cell (sugar) lung tumors are extraordinarily rare. These particular lung tumors have been described as benign neoplasms that have a considerable amount of intracellular glycogen among other diagnostic features. The characteristic presence of such a high amount of glycogen has led to these tumors as often being referred to as simply, sugar tumors of the lung. The purpose of this report is to add to other reported cases of this rare pulmonary lesion, through a comprehensive literature review. The goals are to inform physicians of this rare entity, and to discuss how these tumors can be confused with malignant tumors.
CaseA 39-year-old, well-developed female presented with evidence of a persistent nodule located in the left-upper lobe of the lung. A whole body positron emission tomographic/computed tomography (PET/CT) showed the nodule measuring approximately 1.1 cm 3 1.0 cm in size along with persistent ground glass type infiltrate. The 18-fluorodeoxyglucose uptake was positive. The nodule was also shown to be changing with serial films, with an increase in size. The structural exam was normal except for paravertebral tissue fullness around T2 to T5. It was recommended that she undergo videoassisted thoracoscopic resection of the lesion. A wedge resection was carried out and the lesion was successfully removed alongside normal surrounding parenchyma. Frozen sections showed evidence of inflammatory cells surrounding the nodule, but no evidence of malignancy. During the operation, both the lesion and the lung parenchyma were opened and aerobic, anaerobic, and acid-fast cultures were obtained. The rest of the lung appeared healthy with no pleural effusions or any other abnormalities. The operation was well-tolerated and the patient recovered completely and continued to do well on postsurgical cardiothoracic surgical clinic visits. Final pathology was consistent with benign sugar tumor (Fig.