Gastrointestinal stromal tumor masquerading as a lung neoplasm. A case presentation and literature review

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are rare neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract. Their incidence in the esophagus is 1%-3%. Never has a GIST been documented to directly invade the lung. We report a primary esophageal GIST with direct invasion into the lung parenchyma, presenting predominantly with respiratory symptoms. We include a retrospective literature review. Although the principle 'common things are common' usually guides our everyday clinical practice, this case emphasizes that rare entities can mimic common pathologies and underlines the importance of having a clearly defined differential diagnostic list which should be meticulously scrutinized.

Thymic hemangioma presenting with recurrent pleural effusion

Thymic hemangiomas are rare mediastinal tumors. In all reported cases, the diagnosis was only established after resection. Our case presented with recurrent pleural effusions mimicking advanced malignancy. Despite careful evaluation and biopsies, the diagnosis was only established after resection. We have undertaken a literature review of such unusual tumors and emphasize the importance of surgical exploration in any patient in whom a tumor lacks histological confirmation.