A case of sarcoidosis accompanying squamous cell carcinoma in the mandibular gingiva

Abstract

A 51-year-old man with a history of gingival cancer two years previously was referred to our hospital for further examination of chest abnormal shadow. Bilateral hilar and mediastinal lymphadenopathy, diffuse small nodular opacities and pleural nodules were observed in chest high resolution CT. Serum angiotensin converting enzyme and lysozyme were elevated. Transbronchial lung biopsy specimens demonstrated non-caseous granuloma. CD4-positive lymphocytes were increased in broncho-alveolar lavage (CD4/CD8 ratio 5.47). The patient was diagnosed as having sarcoidosis. Radiological findings were improved and serum angiotensin converting enzyme level was decreased to within the normal range by corticosteroid therapy (prednisolone 30 mg/day). This is the first report of sarcoidosis accompanying the gingival cancer.