Pulmonary carcinosarcoma initially presenting as invasive aspergillosis: a case report of previously unreported combination

Authors

Ariyo O. Olobatoke, Sinai Grace Hospital/Detroit Medical CenterFollow
Doina David, Wayne State University and Detroit Medical Center/Sinai Grace HospitalFollow
Wasif Hafeez, Sinai Grace Hospital/Detroit Medical CenterFollow
Thien Van, Wayne State University and Detroit Medical Center/Sinai Grace HospitalFollow
Husain A. Saleh, Wayne State University and Detroit Medical Center/Sinai Grace Hospital Detroit MichiganFollow

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Abstract

Carcinosarcoma of the lung is a malignant tumor composed of a mixture of carcinoma and sarcoma elements. The carcinomatous component is most commonly squamous followed by adenocarcinoma. The sarcomatous component commonly comprises the bulk of the tumor and shows poorly differentiated spindle cell features. Foci of differentiated sarcomatous elements such as chondrosarcoma and osteosarcoma may be seen. Aspergillus pneumonia is the most common form of invasive aspergillosis and occurs mainly in patients with malignancy, immunocompromizing or debilitating diseases. Patients with Aspergillus pneumonia present with fever, cough, chest pain and occasionally hemoptysis. Tissue examination is the most reliable method for diagnosis, and mortality rate is high.

We describe a case of primary carcinosarcoma of the lung concurrently occurring with invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in a 66-year old patient.

Disciplines

Circulatory and Respiratory Physiology | Pathology

Recommended Citation

Olobatoke et al.: Pulmonary carcinosarcoma initially presenting as invasive aspergillosis: a case report of previously unreported combination. Diagnostic Pathology 2010 5:11.