Rare presentation of renal cell cancer as dysphagia: a case report

J Med Case Rep. 2019 Mar 19;13(1):89. doi: 10.1186/s13256-018-1967-6.

Abstract

Background: Metastasis from distal solid organs to the esophagus is very rare. Renal cell cancer with esophageal metastasis is extremely rare. We present the first case report of undiagnosed renal cell cancer presenting as dysphagia.

Case presentation: A 56-year-old Caucasian man presented for dysphagia evaluation. An esophagogastroduodenoscopy examination revealed a 6 mm nodule located at gastroesophageal junction. Pathology and immunohistopathology were suggestive of metastatic renal cell cancer. Abdominal imaging revealed a large renal mass consistent with renal cell cancer. He underwent left nephrectomy and is clinically asymptomatic, while being monitored by Oncology and Urology.

Conclusions: Undiagnosed renal cell cancer metastasis presenting as dysphagia is very rare. Careful upper endoscopy examination contributed to the diagnosis of this rare entity. A multidisciplinary team approach is key for management of these clinical dilemmas.

Keywords: Case report; Esophageal metastasis; Renal cell cancer.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma, Renal Cell / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Renal Cell / secondary*
  • Deglutition Disorders / etiology*
  • Endoscopy, Digestive System
  • Esophageal Neoplasms / complications
  • Esophageal Neoplasms / secondary*
  • Esophageal Neoplasms / surgery
  • Humans
  • Kidney Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Kidney Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Kidney Neoplasms / surgery
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nephrectomy
  • Positron Emission Tomography Computed Tomography
  • Treatment Outcome