# Multilobar massive cavitating adenocarcinoma: a case report

**Authors:** Gerardo Arwi, Paul Fogarty, Andrew Mant, Julee H’ng, Andrew Barling, Francis Thien

PMC · DOI: 10.1186/s13256-025-05140-2 · Journal of Medical Case Reports · 2025-06-10

## TL;DR

A rare case of a complex lung tumor is reported, emphasizing the need for thorough imaging and biopsy to achieve an accurate diagnosis.

## Contribution

This case report highlights the diagnostic challenges of cavitary lung lesions and the importance of serial imaging and surgical biopsy.

## Key findings

- Serial imaging and clinical follow-up were crucial in identifying progressive cavitary lung disease.
- Surgical biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of mucinous adenocarcinoma in a complex case.
- Early and systematic investigation is essential for diagnosing rare lung conditions.

## Abstract

The diagnostic evaluation of complex cavitary lung lesions is often challenging owing to the broad spectrum of differential diagnoses. These lesions can be associated with various conditions, making it crucial to employ comprehensive diagnostic strategies. This case underscores the significance of serial imaging, close clinical follow-up, and surgical biopsy in managing such complex cases.

A 59-year-old woman of Indian descent was referred for the management of pneumonia. Initial chest computed tomography showed patchy inflammatory changes in the right upper lobe, a large cavity in the left upper lobe, and a smaller cavity in the left lower lobe. Follow-up imaging indicated progressive cavitary disease. Bronchoscopies did not yield significant findings. A video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery biopsy was performed, which confirmed mucinous adenocarcinoma.

This case highlights the diagnostic challenge posed by cavitary lung lesions and emphasizes the importance of serial imaging, vigilant clinical monitoring, and surgical biopsy in achieving an accurate diagnosis. Early and systematic investigation is key to identifying rare causes such as mucinous adenocarcinoma.

## Linked entities

- **Diseases:** pneumonia (MONDO:0005249), mucinous adenocarcinoma (MONDO:0004957)

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** pneumonia (MESH:D011014), cavitary lung lesions (MESH:D008171), inflammatory (MESH:D007249), adenocarcinoma (MESH:D000230), cavitary disease (MESH:C566924), mucinous adenocarcinoma (MESH:D002288)
- **Species:** Homo sapiens (human, species) [taxon 9606]

## Full text

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## Figures

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12150467