Synchronous primary adenocarcinoma of the lung and pancreas: a case series and review of the literature

Abstract

Aim: The frequency of pancreatic cancer in association with cancer of other organs ranges from 1 to 20%, with the most common ones being gastric, colon, thyroid and genitourinary. The presence of synchronous lung and pancreatic cancers is extremely rare. Case series: Two patients with extensive smoking history and variable presentations were found to have simultaneous lung and pancreatic masses both lesions being different histologically and on immunohistochemical staining. After individualized treatment plans, the first patient remains free of disease and the second patient is being treated with a palliative intent. Conclusion: The early recognition and treatment is important as there exists a significant survival difference in patients who have synchronous primaries as opposed to those with metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma.