Case Report

Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of Trachea Treated with Tumor Curettage and Adjuvant Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy

Authors: Cheng-Yu Chang, MD, Shin-Lung Cheng, MD, Shih-Chieh Chang, MD

Abstract

Primary tracheal tumors are rare, accounting for only 0.2% of all thoracic cancers. Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is the second most common tracheal malignancy. Most ACC patients present with dyspnea, and the symptoms often mimic those of asthma or chronic bronchitis. We report the case of a 79-year-old female patient who presented with dyspnea and wheezing, but showed poor response to bronchodilator treatment. Bronchoscopy revealed a lobulated tumor over the lower third of the trachea, and biopsy revealed adenoid cystic carcinoma. Tumor curettage followed by intensity modulated radiation therapy was performed, and the patient eventually recovered. This case demonstrates that such less invasive management also leads to a favorable outcome.

This content is limited to qualifying members.

Existing members, please login first

If you have an existing account please login now to access this article or view purchase options.

Purchase only this article ($25)

Create a free account, then purchase this article to download or access it online for 24 hours.

Purchase an SMJ online subscription ($75)

Create a free account, then purchase a subscription to get complete access to all articles for a full year.

Purchase a membership plan (fees vary)

Premium members can access all articles plus recieve many more benefits. View all membership plans and benefit packages.

References

1. Macchiarini P. Primary tracheal tumors. Lancet Oncol 2006;7:83–91.
 
2. Allen MS. Malignant tracheal tumors. Mayo Clin Proc 1993;68:680–684.
 
3. Gaissert HA, Grillo HC, Shadmehr MB, et al. Long-term survival after resection of primary adenoid cystic and squamous cell carcinoma of the trachea and carina. Ann Thorac Surg 2004;78:1889–1896.
 
4. Müller A, Stockamp B, Schnabel T. Successful primary radiation therapy of adenoid cystic carcinoma of the lung. Oncology 2000;58:15–17.
 
5. Haresh KP, Prabhakar R, Rath GK, et al. Adenoid cystic carcinoma of trachea treated with PET-CT based intensity modulated radiotherapy. J Thorac Oncol 2008;3:793–795.
 
6. Spiro RH, Huvos AG. Stage means more than grade in adenoid cystic carcinoma. Am J Surg 1992;164:623–628.