Acrometastasis as an Early Indicator of Lung Adenocarcinoma

Introduction

Lung cancer remains one of the most prevalent and deadly cancers worldwide, affecting millions of individuals each year. While metastasis to organs such as the brain, liver, and bones is common, the occurrence of acral (hand and foot) metastasis is rare. In an extraordinary case, a patient presented with a swollen finger, which was later diagnosed as a metastatic lesion from lung adenocarcinoma.

Visit https://www.clinmedcasereportsjournal.org/acr for more groundbreaking research in oncology.

Case Summary

A 63-year-old male presented with a persistent, swollen wound on his second left-hand finger, initially attributed to a workplace injury. Upon further investigation, a biopsy confirmed malignancy, leading to a referral to the Medical Oncology Department at Dicle University.

Key findings included:

• A 5 cm mass detected in the right lung’s middle zone.
• PET-CT scans confirmed primary lung cancer with acral bone metastasis.
• Biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of stage IV lung adenocarcinoma.

Following the diagnosis, the patient underwent a treatment regimen of gemcitabine and cisplatin, along with radiotherapy and bisphosphonate therapy for bone metastases. Amputation of the affected finger was also performed.

Rare Yet Significant: Acral Metastases

Acral metastases account for only 0.1% of all bone metastases, with nearly half originating from lung cancer. Studies from leading organizations like the American Cancer Society (ACS) highlight that lung cancer is a significant contributor to metastatic disease in the extremities due to its direct access to the arterial circulation.

Prognosis & Treatment Approaches

Patients with acral metastases often face a poorer prognosis, with survival rates varying significantly based on disease extent and treatment response. Recommended treatment options include:

• Systemic chemotherapy to target widespread malignancy.
• Radiotherapy and bisphosphonates for bone metastases.
• Surgical interventions such as amputation in cases of localized metastatic lesions.

A detailed analysis of this study can be found at https://doi.org/10.29328/journal.acr.1001029.

Clinical Implications

Given the rarity of acral metastasis, physicians must consider underlying malignancies when evaluating non-healing wounds, particularly in patients with a history of smoking or lung disease. Multidisciplinary collaboration between oncologists, radiologists, and orthopedic specialists is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective treatment.

Stay Informed & Engaged

Explore more in-depth case studies and medical advancements at https://www.clinmedcasereportsjournal.com/acr. Join the conversation by sharing your insights and experiences in the comments below!

Disclaimer: This content is generated using AI assistance and should be reviewed for accuracy and compliance before considering this article and its contents as a reference. Any mishaps or grievances raised due to the reuse of this material will not be handled by the author of this article.

You may provide us with feedback in the comments section.