Small large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma in a patient with pulmonary emphysema.

Large-cell neuroendocrine carcinomas (LCNECs) are relatively rare, and most reported occurrences tend to involve relatively large tumors. We report a small LCNEC in a 63-year-old male patient with pulmonary emphysema. The peripheral pulmonary nodule did not have lobulation and spiculation, and it was difficult to establish correct diagnosis before surgery because of its small size and effect of surrounding emphysematous change.