Metastatic Small Cell Carcinoma of Lung To Pancreas Mimicking As Acute Pancreatitis: A Case Report

Abstract

Small cell carcinoma (SCC) of lung is a highly malignant tumour and is notorious for early and widespread metastasis at the time of presentation. However, metastasis to pancreas occurs uncommonly. Metastatic lesions comprise of 3% of all pancreatic malignancies. We hereby present a rare case report where patient presented with symptoms of acute pancreatitis & diagnosed with SCC of lung, retrospectively. This case emphasize that acute pancreatitis can be a manifestation of malignancy and fine needle aspiration cytology can play a diagnostic role in such cases.

Keywords: FNAC; Metastasis; Neuroendocrine tumour.

[Table/Fig-1]:

CT Scan Abdomen showing two space occupying lesions in swollen pancreas

[Table/Fig-2]:

Cytosmear from pancreatic mass showing nuclear molding, streaking & scanty cytoplasm (Giemsa Stain, 400X)

[Table/Fig-3]:

CT scan chest showing a parahilar mass involving left lobe (shown with yellow arrow)

[Table/Fig-4]:

Hypercellular cytosmear from lung mass showing similar picture as pancreatic mass (Giemsa Stain, 400X)

[Table/Fig-5]:

Tissue section from lung (H&E Stain, 100X) showing small cell carcinoma having dark staining cells with small, oval to spindled nuclei and scanty cytoplasm