Preoperative stereotactic body radiotherapy to a skull renal cell metastasis: an alternative to preoperative embolization?

J Palliat Med. 2011 Feb;14(2):157-60. doi: 10.1089/jpm.2010.0231. Epub 2011 Jan 12.

Abstract

Introduction: This is the first case study to report on using stereotactic body radiotherapy as an alternative and novel treatment modality for embolization to reduce the risk of operative bleeding for a metastatic renal cell tumor.

Case presentation: A 58-year-old woman presented with an asymptomatic large 7-cm tumor on the parieto-occipital vertex of the skull. Given the location of this lesion along with its vascular histology, it was a challenge to provide safe and effective treatment using conventional management strategies.

Conclusion: We report on a rare presentation of a metastatic renal cell cancer and the use of stereotactic body radiotherapy as an innovative radiation approach to deliver high-dose radiation safely to control this large aggressive and vascular metastasis. The success of this management strategy allowed for minimal intraoperative blood loss, and the patient continues with local control 1-year posttreatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma, Renal Cell / diagnostic imaging*
  • Carcinoma, Renal Cell / secondary*
  • Carcinoma, Renal Cell / surgery
  • Embolization, Therapeutic*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intraoperative Complications / prevention & control
  • Kidney / pathology*
  • Kidney Neoplasms / radiotherapy*
  • Kidney Neoplasms / secondary*
  • Kidney Neoplasms / surgery
  • Middle Aged
  • Preoperative Care / methods
  • Radiation Dosage
  • Radiography
  • Radiosurgery*
  • Skull Neoplasms / pathology*