Imaging findings of an extramedullary epidural metastatic small cell lung cancer tumor: a case report

Abstract

Background: Extramedullary epidural metastatic tumors of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) are rare, and their clinical symptoms and imaging features lack specificity. This study was aimed at improving understanding of epidural metastatic SCLC tumors. Case report: We present the case of a 75-year-old patient with an extramedullary epidural metastatic SCLC tumor that was misinterpreted as a primary intraspinal tumor according to preoperative CT and MRI resonance imaging. Laboratory test results for CA-153 (28.30 U/mL) were substantially abnormal. A solid, well-defined, soft tissue mass approximately 0.3 cm × 1.5 cm in diameter at the seventh and eighth thoracic canals was observed on CT and MRI images. A dural tail sign was observed on contrast-enhanced magnetic MRI. Because the tumor compressed the spinal cord, the intraspinal mass was resected, and the vertebral canal was decompressed. Pathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of an extramedullary epidural metastatic SCLC tumor. Conclusions: Extramedullary epidural metastatic SCLC tumors lack clinical specificity. Imaging is helpful for early diagnosis, treatment, prediction of the disease course, and evaluation of curative effects. Ultimately, pathological examination and biopsy are required to confirm the diagnosis.