Spontaneous regression of thoracic malignancies

50Citations
Citations of this article
30Readers
Mendeley users who have this article in their library.

This article is free to access.

Abstract

Background: Clinicians are frequently questioned by patients about the possibility of spontaneous regression of tumors. Although there are many reports and a few case series documenting spontaneous regression, there is concern that these cases may not represent true regression. Using specific criteria, we attempted to determine the incidence and types of thoracic malignancy most likely to regress spontaneously. Methods: We used a PubMed search of the phrase "spontaneous regression of thoracic lesions" reported from 1951 to December 2008. Using a modified Everson and Cole criterion we developed to define spontaneous regression, this search was refined for true spontaneous regression of primary and metastatic thoracic malignancies. Results: Only 5 cases in the literature involved spontaneous regression of a primary thoracic malignancy. These include pleural mesothelioma, primary lung cancer and adenoid cystic carcinoma. 71 cases involved true spontaneous regression of metastatic thoracic neoplasms, of which 5 cases showed regression of the primary extrapulmonary tumors along with the pulmonary metastasis. Thoracic metastasis from renal cell carcinoma was the most common malignancy found to regress spontaneously. Conclusion: Spontaneous regression of primary thoracic malignancy is rare. Renal cell carcinoma accounts for most reported cases. © 2010 Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Cite

CITATION STYLE

APA

Kumar, T., Patel, N., & Talwar, A. (2010). Spontaneous regression of thoracic malignancies. Respiratory Medicine, 104(10), 1543–1550. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rmed.2010.04.026

Register to see more suggestions

Mendeley helps you to discover research relevant for your work.

Already have an account?

Save time finding and organizing research with Mendeley

Sign up for free