Recurrence of Cervical Lymph Node Metastasis From an Unknown Primary Site: A Report of a Case Treated Using a Multidisciplinary Approach

TL;DR

This case report describes a rare cancer that spreads to neck lymph nodes without a known origin and highlights the challenges in diagnosing and treating it.

Contribution

The paper presents a case of recurrent cervical lymph node metastasis with an unknown primary site and advocates for improved diagnostic and treatment strategies.

Findings

Despite radical neck dissection, the cancer recurred within two months with no identifiable primary tumor.

A multidisciplinary approach is emphasized for diagnosing and managing metastatic cervical carcinoma from an unknown primary site.

Surgical intervention is preferred for accurate staging when feasible.

Abstract

Metastatic cervical carcinoma from an unknown primary source poses a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge, as it involves the spread of cancer to the neck lymph nodes without a discernible primary tumor despite thorough investigation. While the diagnosis and treatment of this uncommon condition lack definitive evidence, a review of existing literature offers some clinical guidance. A comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, which includes multiple imaging and endoscopic studies, is essential. Surgery is preferred whenever feasible due to its ability to offer more precise staging. This treatment entails an excisional biopsy, neck dissection, and tonsillectomy, but advanced cases necessitate a combination of treatments.

This case report underscores this complexity, where, despite radical neck dissection on the affected side, recurrence manifested after two months with no discernible primary site. We emphasize the urgency for continued research and innovative approaches to enhance the diagnosis and management of metastatic cervical carcinoma from an unknown primary source.

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