Primary pulmonary choriocarcinoma: A case report

Abstract

Primary pulmonary choriocarcinomais a rare malignant tumor of the lung. It is classified as one of the primary extragonadal choriocarcinomas, which often involve midline structures such as the intracranium, mediastinum, stomach, intestines, retroperitoneum, bladder, and prostate. It has two unique characteristics: it is not associated with abnormal gestation and is not part of a germ cell neoplasm involving the reproductive organs. Its diagnosis is often challenging and treatment is usually ineffective. We present the first case of primary pulmonary choriocarcinoma reported from East Africa and one of only 56 cases reported in the literature.