Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis in a patient with gallbladder carcinoma

An overview of the therapeutic strategies for neoplastic meningitis due to breast cancer: when and why?

INTRODUCTION

Neoplastic meningitis (NM), also known as leptomeningeal carcinomatosis, is characterized by the infiltration of tumor cells into the meninges, and poses a significant therapeutic challenge owing to its aggressive nature and limited treatment options. Breast cancer is a common cause of NM among solid tumors, further highlighting the urgent need to explore effective therapeutic strategies. This review aims to provide insights into the evolving landscape of NM therapy in breast cancer by collating existing research, evaluating current treatments, and identifying potential emerging therapeutic options.

AREAS COVERED

This review explores the clinical features, therapeutic strategies, recent advances, and challenges of managing NM in patients with breast cancer. Its management includes multimodal strategies, including systemic and intrathecal chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive care. This review also emphasizes targeted drug options and optimal drug concentrations, and discusses emerging therapies. Additionally, it highlights the variability in treatment outcomes and the potential of combination regimens to effectively manage NM in breast cancer.

EXPERT OPINION

Challenges in treating NM include debates over clinical trial end points and the management of adverse effects. Drug resistance and low response rates are significant hurdles, particularly inHER2-negative breast cancer. The development of more precise and cost-effective medications with improved selectivity is crucial. Additionally, global efforts are needed for infrastructure development and cancer control considering the diverse nature of the disease.

Role of minimally invasive surgery in the treatment of gallbladder metastatic melanoma. A review of the literature and a case report

Background

Primary and secondary gallbladder melanomas are rare, and only 58 cases have been reported in scientific literature to date. This paper aimed to explore the role of minimally invasive surgery in the management of gallbladder metastatic melanomas.

Case

Herein, we present the case of a 68‐year‐old man with metastatic gallbladder melanoma who was treated with laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Our case management was then compared with that of other cases reported in the literature.

Conclusion

Currently, metastatic melanomas can be considered as a potentially curable disease. Palliation of symptoms and fast recovery following minimally invasive procedures could be beneficial for these patients. Particularly, laparoscopic procedures appear to prolong the survival of gallbladder melanoma patients.

Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis from gallbladder cancer after curative resection: A case report and review of literature

Introduction Only 12 cases of gallbladder (GB) cancer associated with leptomeningeal carcinomatosis (LMC) have been reported so far. Herein, we report the first known case of LMC originating from GB cancer after curative resection and discuss the risk factors of LMC associated with GB cancer. Case Presentation An 85-year-old Japanese woman presented with vomiting and impaired awareness 2 years after curative extended cholecystectomy for GB cancer . Computed tomography showed hydronephrosis of the right kidney and ureteral thickening. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed areas of hyperintense reflecting lesions along the cerebral sulci, suggesting meningitis. A spinal tap showed an elevated cerebrospinal fluid pressure of > 270 mmH 2 O, and cytological examination of the spinal fluid revealed the presence of adenocarcinoma cells. The patient was diagnosed with retroperitoneal metastasis and LMC originating from GB cancer. The patient was given palliative care and died 4 weeks after the onset of symptoms. Conclusion The findings of this study show that LMC could occur even after curative resection of GB cancer and should be considered when patients present with neurological symptoms. Retroperitoneal metastases and poorly differentiated tumors are possible risk factors of LMC originating from GB cancer.