Keywords
Adenoid cystic carcinoma; Lacrimal gland; Cancer survivorship; Molecular markers
Abstract
Adenoid cystic carcinoma is a rare malignancy with historically high mortality and morbidity, although modern surgical techniques have led to improved outcome. Often disease course is complicated by persistent local, or distant recurrence, occurring up to 10-years following initial diagnosis. Here we describe a 63 year-old female who presented with a lacrimal gland mass, which proved to be adenoid cystic carcinoma. The mass was piecemeal resected and adjuvant radiation was administered. After multiple local recurrences and resections, lung metastasis was identified ten years following initial tumor diagnosis in the lacrimal gland.
Metastatic lacrimal adenoid cystic carcinoma is rare and there is no standard approach to management of metastases. Systemic therapy has had minimal benefit, however modern targeted therapies may provide additional options. There is evidence that patients who undergo metastasectomy can have improved survival. This case highlights the need for long-term follow up of patients with adenoid cystic carcinoma as well as the need for further evaluation for effective systemic therapy options.
Citation
Holstead R, Seetharamu N, Berger A, Sheplay K, Aziz M (2020) Metastatic Lacrimal Gland Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma to the Lung. Report of a Case with Multiple Recurrences and a Brief Review of the Literature. SM J Case Rep 6: 3.