Work

Malignant mimicry: A rare case of pulmonary mucoepidermoid carcinoma presenting as obstructive pneumonia

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Pulmonary mucoepidermoid carcinomas (PMECs) are rare malignancies that often present with non-specific pulmonary symptoms and obstructive pneumonia. We present a 19-year-old female who presented with two years of recurrent pneumonia, dyspnea, and left-sided pleuritic pain. Review of serial ED imaging would identify a persistent lung infiltrate located in the left upper lobe. Bronchoscopy with extensive pathology analysis would confirm MAML2-positive stage IB mucoepidermoid carcinoma. The patient underwent curative treatment consisting of a sleeve lobectomy and was placed under close follow-up and monitoring. This case emphasizes the importance of having a high clinical index of suspicion with symptoms indicative of obstructive pneumonia in otherwise healthy young adults. • A case of pulmonary mucoepidermoid carcinoma (PMEC). A salivary neoplasm that is a rare form of primary malignant lung tumor. • Presented with prolonged symptoms and initial diagnostic uncertainty, which required bronchoscopy and genetic testing. • The disease course is well documented with extensive imaging, bronchoscopy images, pathology, and genetic analysis included. • This case highlights the importance of vigilance for less common malignancies with non-specific symptoms in young adults.

Source: Respiratory Medicine Case Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.rmcr.2025.102277

Authors: Henry Elsenpeter, Kelly Reishus, Alfredo Iardino

Institution: University of North Dakota

Language: English

Topic: Salivary Gland Tumors Diagnosis and Treatment

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,200