Spindle cell sarcomatoid carcinoma of the lungs in a Nigerian woman: A case report

Abstract

Spindle cell sarcomatoid carcinoma of the lung is a very rare but highly aggressive tumour. The presentation is usually non-specific and can be confused with bronchogenic carcinoma, even on imaging. Tissue biopsy, with histology and immunohistochemistry, is very helpful in diagnosing and differentiating sarcomatoid cell cancer from bronchogenic carcinoma. Surgical resection is the treatment of choice, and if it is not possible, palliative chemotherapy may be an option. This report is about a rare case of spindle cell sarcomatoid sarcoma of the left lung in a flight attendant who presented with left-sided, dull aching chest pain, associated shortness of breath, and cough that was occasionally productive, haemoptysis and weight loss of one-month duration. The tissue biopsy with histology and immunohistochemistry supported the clinical diagnosis of the tumour. Although rare, spindle cell sarcomas may occur in very few patients. The clinical history, imaging and pathologic findings are essential in preventing misdiagnosis of these patients.