Metastatic large cell neuroendocrine lung cancer to the foramen magnum: A case report

RATIONABLE: Large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the lung is rare, especially in the area of the foramen magnum. No previous studies have reported metastatic large cell neuroendocrine lung cancer to the foramen magnum. This paper will be the first time to report this special case. PATIENT CONCERNS: A case of a 37-year-old woman presented with headache that had developed 20 days previously. Imaging examination revealed a circular abnormal signal at the posterior margin of the foramen magnum. DIAGNOSES: The patient we report was diagnosed with a metastatic intracranial tumor. INTERVENTIONS: The patient underwent occipital craniotomy. Pathological results showed metastatic neuroendocrine carcinoma of the brain. Whole body PET-CT examination showed that fusiform soft tissue shadows could be seen near the hilum of the lower lobe of the left lung. OUTCOMES: The final bronchoscopy pathological results showed the large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the lung. The patient underwent further chemotherapy and radiotherapy in the oncology department. LESSONS: Diagnosis and treatment of large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the lung are difficult. The prognosis is poorer, and effective treatment is urgently needed.