Low-dose radiotherapy combined with immunotherapy for suboral adenoid cystic carcinoma with bilateral lung metastasis: A case report and literature review

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is a type of malignant tumor arising from the salivary glands. The tumor is characterized by a predilection for recurrence and metastasis. At present, there is no effective treatment for ACC complicated with lung metastasis. The present study reported on a case of suboral ACC with bilateral lung metastasis and the clinical features and treatment options were discussed based on a literature review. A 55-year-old female presented with suboral ACC accompanied with bilateral lung metastases. The main symptoms were masses in the right mandible and shortness of breath. Low-dose radiotherapy (LDRT) combined with immunotherapy were administered to control lung metastases. The patient is currently in a stable condition and is receiving immunotherapy. LDRT combined with immunotherapy is a feasible treatment option for such patients. Our experience with this case and the information from the literature review provide insight into the therapeutic approach for this relatively rare entity.