Multiple metastases of clear-cell renal cell carcinoma to different region of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinus 3 times successively: A case report and literature review

RATIONALE: Distant metastasis of clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) to the nasal cavity and paranasal sinus is rare. Endoscopic biopsy used to be performed for diagnosis when it is difficult for complete resection due to intense bleeding during surgery. According to previous literature, the outcomes of metastasis after endoscopic surgery remain unclear. PATIENT CONCERNS: A 62-year-old man with a history of epistaxis was referred to our institution. The clinical, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination indicate metastasis to sinonasal sinuses. Diagnoses: He was histopathologically diagnosed with different anatomical structures of nasal cavity and paranasal sinus metastases 6, 14, and 15 years after the initial nephrectomy for ccRCC. INTERVENTIONS: He underwent endoscopic surgery 3 times, once at the time of each metastasis. OUTCOMES: He survived for 20 years despite of multitransfers and died due to multiple organ failure. LESSONS: Metastasis of ccRCC to the nasal cavity and paranasal sinus is characterized by varied growth rates, metastatic times and spreading patterns; ccRCC metastasis should be considered with the presence of hemorrhagic lesions in the nasal cavity and paranasal sinus. Endoscopic surgery is the first-line treatment.