Primary squamous cell carcinoma of the pleura treated with nivolumab

Abstract

Malignant pleural effusions usually manifest in the course of metastatic cancer disease. Primary pleural tumours are rare with mesothelioma being by far the most common. Primary squamous cell carcinoma of the pleura (PSCCP) is extremely rare. It is usually asymptomatic, until it invades the pleura presenting pain as the first symptom. Our knowledge about its treatment or prognosis is limited due to its rarity. We present the case of a 48-year-old man who presented with persistent right-sided thoracic pain with chest computed tomography (CT) scan demonstrating a right-sided pleural effusion and pleural mass invading the ribs. Ultrasound-guided biopsy revealed a PSCCP. Positron emission tomography staging demonstrated metastatic lung and lymph node involvement precluding surgical therapy. We provide information about treatment, including immunotherapy as well as extended follow-up course. Immunotherapy with nivolumab resulted in prolongation of survival with good quality of life.