Small-Cell Lung Carcinoma Associated With Cystic Airspaces: A Case Report

TL;DR

A rare case of small-cell lung cancer associated with a cystic airspace is reported, highlighting the challenges in diagnosis and treatment.

Contribution

This case report presents a rare manifestation of small-cell lung carcinoma associated with cystic airspaces.

Findings

The patient's lesion was initially misinterpreted due to its cystic appearance.

The tumor did not respond to antibiotic therapy, indicating its malignant nature.

Chemotherapy reduced the cystic wall thickness and nodules.

Abstract

Small-cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) associated with cystic airspaces is rare. We describe the case of a 68-year-old man who was referred to our hospital because of a cystic lesion detected on chest radiography. Initial computed tomography revealed a small nodule abutting the cystic airspace due to paraseptal emphysema in the right lower lobe. Histopathological examination of lymphadenopathy indicated SCLC. Postchemotherapy, recurrence appeared as a thick-walled cystic airspace with an exophytic nodule along the cyst wall, mimicking pneumonia. Additional chemotherapy, but not antibiotic therapy, led to a reduction in the wall thickness and nodules. This case emphasizes unresponsiveness to antibiotic therapy, especially in patients with risk factors, highlighting the diagnostic pitfall that may delay timely cancer treatment.

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