Primary Small Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Mediastinum

Abstract

A large tumor located in the anterior-middle mediastinum, showing scattered punctate calcifications and compressing or invading the adjacent mediastinal structures, should arouse suspicion for a small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma. However, the diagnosis of such tumors requires a combination of pathological and immunohistochemical examination.

Anti-Hu Antibody-Associated Adie's Pupil and Paraneoplastic Sensorimotor Polyneuropathy Caused by Primary Mediastinal Small Cell Carcinoma

“…However, mediastinal primary SCC is extremely rare. Its origin is not clear (20). The tumor cells could synthesize, store, and release peptide or amine hormones such as gastrin and chromogranin.…”

Primary Mediastinal Small Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma Presenting with Superior Vena Cava Syndrome

“…With only a few cases currently documented in the literature, the etiology of MSCNC remains unknown. These types of tumors are frequently discovered secondary to their compression of neighboring mediastinal structures [1]. Diagnosis requires both pathological identification via biopsy revealing the characteristic organoid pattern as well as immunohistochemical positivity for characteristic markers of MSCNC, including chromogranin A, synaptophysin, and neuron-specific enolase, among others [2].…”

Mediastinum primary small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma

“…However, mediastinal primary small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (MPSCN) is extremely rare. Its origin is not clear [ 2 ]. The diagnosis of MPSCN requires a combination of pathological and immunohistochemical examination.…”

“…Most patients have retrosternal pain, dry cough, or dyspnoea, which can occur because of mass effects. Obstruction of the superior vena cava could cause superior vena cava syndrome [ 2 ].…”