Renal cell carcinoma: Atypical metastasis to inguinal lymph nodes

Renal cell carcinoma uvula metastasis leading to airway compromise: an unusual site

We present a case report of a gentleman presenting with a globular lesion arising from his uvula. Although elective admission was planned, he presented with airway compromise, and emergency excision was required. The patient had a background of metastatic clear cell renal carcinoma; histology confirmed the uvula lesion as a further secondary deposit. Renal cell carcinoma has a recognised metastatic propensity, but spread to the uvula is rare, with only two previously described cases in the literature. This case is notable for the unusual location of the metastasis, as well as the rapid progression of symptoms, which threatened the airway and necessitated urgent surgical intervention.

Atypical metastasis of renal cell carcinoma to the uvula: case report and review of literature

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a common malignancy with high metastatic potential, primarily due to its extensive vascularity. Common sites of metastasis include lungs, bone, lymph nodes, liver, and brain. However, rare cases of metastasis to other sites including inguinal lymph nodes, peritoneum/mesentery, and orbit have been published in the literature. Herein, a unique case involving metastasis of RCC to the uvula is presented. The patient is a 55-year-old White female with a past medical history of stage 3 (T3aN0M0) RCC s/p nephrectomy 3 years prior to presentation. She had symptoms of a foreign body sensation at the back of her throat, and oropharyngeal examination revealed uvular erythematous mass with vascularity. Uvular biopsy and complete excision were performed, which revealed metastatic RCC. Palate biopsy was negative and revealed only squamous mucosa with mild chronic inflammation. To our knowledge, there is only one other documented case of RCC metastasis to the uvula in the literature.