Pathological characteristics of lung tumors in Sri Lanka 2017-2021.

The prevalence of lung cancer is steadily increasing globally, and it is projected to become the second most prevalent cancer in men by 2030. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, accounting for approximately 3.61% of total fatalities. Despite its significant impact, many Asian countries, including Sri Lanka, lack precise data on the epidemiological patterns of lung tumors. This study pioneers a comprehensive exploration in Sri Lanka, delving into the demographic and clinicopathological characteristics of lung cancer patients. The study included 733 consecutive patients with lung tumors from 2017 to 2021, with a median age of 59 years. The most common site of tumors was the right lower lobe and left upper lobes. Adenocarcinoma was the most prevalent histopathological type of primary malignant lung tumors, while colorectal adenocarcinomas were the most common cause of metastatic deposits in the lungs. The most common benign tumor was hamartoma. Significantly, our findings unveiled associations between patient demographics and tumor types, underscoring the importance of factoring in age and gender in diagnostic assessments. Notably, the absence of a dedicated lung cancer screening program in Sri Lanka underscores the critical reliance on clinical suspicion and accurate diagnostic methods.

Case report of an infant with congenital mesoblastic nephroma leading to pulmonary metastasis.

Congenital mesoblastic nephroma is considered a tumour with favourable clinical behaviour with only few reported cases of metastases. We report an infant who underwent complete resection and later developed pulmonary metastasis. Ten-month-old baby girl initially presented at 3 weeks of age with macroscopic haematuria, hypertension and a lumbar mass. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed a tumour arising from the left kidney without local invasion or metastasis. She underwent left nephrectomy. Immunohistochemistry confirmed a cellular type of congenital mesoblastic nephroma. At 10 months, she presented with difficulty in breathing. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed an opacity in the right hemi-thorax. Histology of lung mass was suggestive of deposits from the previously excised mesoblastic nephroma. She developed a right-sided haemothorax and succumbed. This case report highlights the fact that even though congenital mesoblastic nephromas are considered tumours with favourable clinical behaviour, they can present later with distant metastasis. Therefore, clinicians need to be aware of this rare malignant potential and adhere to meticulous follow-up protocols.