Giant solitary fibrous tumour of the pleura: a rare but usually benign intrathoracic neoplasm

Clin Respir J. 2009 Apr;3(2):109-11. doi: 10.1111/j.1752-699X.2008.00104.x.

Abstract

Background: Low forced expiratory volume (FEV(1)) and low performance status usually preclude surgical treatment of lung neoplasms. Earlier case reports have suggested that curative, safe surgery is possible in extrapulmonal intrathoracic neoplasms.

Methods: A case report of an 83-year-old women with progressing dyspnoea secondary to a huge left-side neoplasm.

Results: Work-up reveal an FEV(1) of 0.4 L, and a giant solitary fibrous tumor of the pleura. The tumor was surgically removed in toto without complications: weighting approximately 3 kg, and benign histology. The patient was without dyspnoea at discharge and at 1-year follow-up.

Conclusion: Safe and curative surgery is possible in patients with extrapulmonal neoplasm despite poor FEV(1).

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Biopsy, Needle
  • Dyspnea / diagnosis
  • Dyspnea / etiology
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Postoperative Care / methods
  • Preoperative Care / methods
  • Radiography, Thoracic
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Solitary Fibrous Tumor, Pleural / diagnostic imaging
  • Solitary Fibrous Tumor, Pleural / pathology*
  • Solitary Fibrous Tumor, Pleural / surgery*
  • Thoracic Surgical Procedures / methods*
  • Thoracotomy / methods
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Treatment Outcome