Metastases from renal cell carcinoma presenting as gastrointestinal bleeding: two case reports and a review of the literature

An Atypical Presentation of Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is notorious for spreading to various organs, however, its occurrence in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is uncommon and poses diagnostic challenges due to vague symptoms. Here, we present the case of a 64-year-old man experiencing recurrent RCC metastasis in the GI tract. He presented with multiple episodes of hematochezia and was found to have masses in the colon, liver, and peritoneum, with histopathology confirming RCC. The patient underwent systemic chemotherapy and palliative radiation therapy, leading to symptom relief. This case emphasizes the rarity of RCC metastasizing to the GI tract and the importance of timely recognition and frequent surveillance during the remission phase to detect recurrence.

An unusual metastatic site of renal cell carcinoma: A case report

The main metastatic sites of renal cancer are the lungs, bone, liver, and brain. Dissemination of clear cell renal carcinoma to the rectum is very rare, with only a few sporadic cases published in the literature. The clinical presentation is usually dominated by lower gastrointestinal haemorrhage. We report the 5th case in the literature of a rectal metastasis of clear cell renal carcinoma, revealed by a lower gastrointestinal haemorrhage occurring 8 years after the initial nephrectomy.

Cecal Metastasis of Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma After Previous Nephrectomy

Metastasis of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is exceedingly rare. We present a case of a man in his 40s with a history of RCC that had metastasized to his abdominal wall and brain who then presented with abdominal pain and melena. On presentation, imaging showed new bone metastases and a colonic mass in the ascending colon. The biopsy of the mass from colonoscopy demonstrated RCC primary. Although rare, this case report highlights the importance of a thorough evaluation of patients with a history of RCC and considers GI tract involvement in those presenting with GI bleeding.

Small Bowel Perforation Due to Renal Carcinoma Metastasis: A Comprehensive Case Study and Literature Review

This case report presents a unique instance of small bowel perforation caused by solitary metastasis from renal cell carcinoma (RCC), a rare and complex clinical scenario. The patient, a 59-year-old male with a history of RCC treated with nephrectomy four years prior, presented with acute abdomen symptoms. Emergency diagnostic procedures identified a significant lesion in the small intestine. Surgical intervention revealed a perforated jejunal segment due to metastatic RCC. Postoperatively, the patient developed complications, including pneumonia and multi-organ failure, leading to death 10 days after surgery. Histopathological analysis confirmed the metastatic nature of the lesion. This case underscores the unpredictable nature of RCC metastasis and highlights the need for vigilance in post-nephrectomy patients. The rarity of small bowel involvement by RCC metastasis, particularly presenting as perforation, makes this case a significant contribution to medical literature, emphasizing the challenges in the diagnosis and management of such atypical presentations.

Bleeding metastasis of renal cell cancer to anal canal treated with radiation

Renal cell cancer (RCC) has the ability to metastasize to various organs, including the anal canal which is reported to be the rarest location. An 88-year-old male patient who had previously been treated for right RCC subsequently developed distant metastases to the prostate, lungs, and small bowel. Four years following nephrectomy, the patient presented with a bleeding anal mass which was excised and has been proven to be an anal canal metastasis of RCC. Eight months post excision, regrowth occurred. The patient underwent stereotactic ablative body radiotherapy resulting in satisfactory regression during the 2-month follow-up period, without episodes of bleeding. The treatment options for metastatic post-nephrectomy disease should be considered with a multidisciplinary approach in order to achieve satisfactory symptom relief.

Late recurrence of chromophobe renal cell carcinoma to unusual sites after 12 years of radical nephrectomy and radiotherapy: a rare case report from Syria

In 2020, renal cell carcinoma (RCC) had an incidence of 73 750 new cases. This cancer is well known for its ability to give early and late metastases to some usual and unusual sites. The term 'late recurrence' is widely used to indicate a period exceeding 10 years from curative nephrectomy. This not-understood behaviour is almost specific to RCC, and it happens in a range between 4.3 and 11% of cases of RCC.

Case Presentation

We report a case of a 67-year-old nonalcoholic smoker Syrian male presented with a 2-month painful mass located at the left upper posterolateral abdominal wall's region. He has had a history of left chromophobe cell RCC treated with radical nephrectomy with adjuvant radiotherapy for 12 years. In light of computed tomography's findings, a surgical biopsy was performed, and a pathological and immunohistochemical examination confirmed the diagnosis of chromophobe RCC.

Clinical Discussion

Malignant cells seeding the surgical cut path and staying dormant for 12 years is the best theory of many to explain our case.

Conclusion

We reported evidence for the potential of a relatively indolent histologic type of RCC (i.e. chromophobe cell carcinoma) to cause late recurrence after 12 years to a very rare site (i.e. abdominal wall's superficial muscles). Research should focus on addressing late recurrence to determine the best surveillance protocols; investigating malignant cells seeding during surgery to improve surgical oncology's outcomes; and studying late recurrence's genetics to boost our targeted therapy options.

Initial presentation of renal cell carcinoma as a vaginal mass with excessive bleeding

Introduction

Renal cancer is the seventh most common cancer in men and the tenth most common cancer in women. Renal cell carcinoma accounts for 3% of all adult malignancies and 85% of all primary renal tumours. It metastasizes most often to the lungs, liver, bones, and brain and very rarely to the vagina.

Case report

We present a case of a 60-year-old patient, in whom the renal cell carcinoma manifested for the first time as an intense bleeding, soft tumour formation with dimensions 4/6 cm originating in the vagina.

Discussion

Renal cell carcinoma metastasizes in about 30% of cases. Metastasizing can be lymphatic, hematogenous, transcoelomic, or by direct invasion. Most commonly it affects the lungs, bones, adrenal glands, liver, lymph nodes, and brain. Much less often, it metastasizes to the thyroid, orbit, nasal structures, vagina, gallbladder, pancreas, sublingual tissues, and soft tissues of distal extremities. Metastases can be synchronous and metachronous. The described cases in the literature of renal cell carcinoma manifested with vaginal metastases are isolated.

Conclusions

We present an extremely rare case of renal cell carcinoma manifested by profuse genital bleeding from a vaginal metastasis. In such cases, especially if the vaginal lesion does not appear as the primary vaginal carcinoma, we must consider the possibility of metastasis from renal carcinoma.

Gastrointestinal Metastases From Primary Renal Cell Cancer: A Single Center Review

Introduction: Digestive metastases (DMs) from renal cell cancer (RCC) are rare. Over the past decade, the overall survival of metastatic RCC (mRCC) has been improved by tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and immune checkpoint inhibitors. The main objective of this study was to assess the incidence of metastases of the digestive tract in this new field of treatment. The secondary objectives were to evaluate the clinical characteristics, prognosis, treatments used for DMs, and median time between the diagnosis of RCC or mRCC and DMs. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of data collected from all patients with mRCC between 2007 (the time of TKI was a standard of care) and 2019 was carried out at the Paoli-Calmettes Institute (Marseille, France). Computer research software using artificial intelligence (ConSoRe®) was used to identify patients and assess their characteristics. Results: Between January 2007 and December 2019, 11 out of 660 (1.6%) mRCC patients had metastases of the gastrointestinal tract. The median age was 62 years. Of the 11 patients, 81.8% experienced digestive bleeding or anemia. Only 2 patients were asymptomatic. The metastases were mainly duodenal (50%) and gastric (41.6%). The median time from cancer diagnosis and from metastatic disease to gastrointestinal metastasis was 4.3 years (3 months-19.2 years) and 2.25 years (0 days-10.2 years), respectively. Local treatment was performed in 38.5% of cases by endoscopy (60%), surgery (20%) and radiotherapy (40%) with success rates of 33, 100, and 50%, respectively. Etiological treatment was modified following the discovery of DM in 84.6% of the cases. The median survival was 1 year from the diagnosis of DM (13 days-9.4 years). Two patients were still alive 2.9 and 9.4 years after the diagnosis of DM. Conclusion: This is the largest monocentric retrospective analysis of DM in patients with RCC. It seems to be a rare and late event in the course of the disease. Local treatment combined with systemic treatment could improve survival. In the context of prolonged survival with the new based immunotherapy treatments in mRCC, we suggest that unexplained anemia or persistent digestive symptoms could be explored by endoscopy.

Management of colon-invading renal cell carcinoma: Operative technique and systematic review

Invasion into adjacent organs by non-metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) occurs in 1% of patients suitable for resection. Colonic invasion is rare and presents technical challenges. No prospective data exists to guide management of these patients. We present the first reported case of a colon-invading RCC managed with simultaneous open right radical nephrectomy and extended right hemicolectomy. PubMed, Scopus and EMBASE databases were searched for relevant case reports reporting management of colon-invading renal cell carcinoma. Case reports, case series and cohort studies were eligible. A chart review was performed on a patient who presented with right-sided colon-invading RCC. Four previously reported cases were identified. The current case was managed with simultaneous open radical nephrectomy and extended right hemicolectomy. The patient remains well six months postoperatively with no evidence of disease recurrence. Histopathological evaluation of the resected specimen confirmed a T4 clear cell RCC with sarcomatoid differentiation. Colon-invading RCC is rare. This is the first reported case of right-sided, colon-invading RCC treated with radical resection. The current case confirms radical resection is a feasible management strategy for similar presentations. En bloc resection of involved organs remains the only potentially curative option for locally advanced disease.

Comparative Assessment of the WNT/β-Catenin Pathway, CacyBP/SIP, and the Immunoproteasome Subunit LMP7 in Various Histological Types of Renal Cell Carcinoma

Objective

The Wnt/ß-catenin pathway plays an important role in pathogenesis of variety cancers. Most studies on changes in WNT/β-catenin pathway in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) apply only to clear cell RCC, while there are no comparative assessments of this signaling pathway in various histological types of renal tumors in the available literature. Additionally, considering the close relationship between WNT/β-catenin signaling, CacyBP/SIP and proteasomal activity, it seemed worth comparing WNT/β-catenin pathway, CacyBP/SIP and LMP7 immunoproteasome subunit in human samples of clear cell, papillary, and chromophobe RCC.

Methods

Tests were performed on sections of three types of kidney tumors together with surrounding unchanged tissue fragments collected from 50 patients. Samples were divided into three groups depending on the histological type of cancer: clear cell, papillary and chromophobe RCC. Immunohistochemistry and PCR methods were used to identify WNT10A, Fzd5, β-catenin, GSK-3ß, CacyBP/SIP, LMP7, and gene expression.

Results

Immunoreactivity and expression of WNT10A, Fzd5, β-catenin, GSK-3ß, CacyBP/SIP, LMP7 in clear cell RCC was markedly increased compared to non-cancerous kidney tissue. In papillary RCC, immunoreactivity and expression of WNT/β-catenin pathway, CacyBP/SIP, LMP7 was also increased compared to non-malignant kidneys, but it was less pronounced than in clear cell RCC. The least substantial increase in immunoreactivity and expression of WNT/β-catenin pathway, CacyBP/SIP, LMP7 was found in chromophobe RCC, compared to other RCC histological subtypes studied.

Conclusions

Study results suggest an important role of WNT/β-catenin pathway, CacyBP/SIP and LMP7 in RCC carcinogenesis, and may indicate new aspects of pathomechanisms leading to differences in the biology of clear cell, papillary and chromophobe RCC.

Bronchial arterial embolization may reduce the risk of severe bleeding in central airway obstruction due to renal cell carcinomas during bronchoscopic procedures

BACKGROUND

Hemorrhage is a life-threatening complication during bronchoscopic intervention in patients with central airway obstruction (CAO) due to metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Whether pre-bronchoscopic bronchial arterial embolization (BAE) can reduce the risk of severe bleeding in CAO patients due to metastatic RCC remains unclear.

METHODS

A total of 31 CAO patients due to metastatic RCC were included retrospectively and divided into a BAE group (receiving pre-bronchoscopic BAE) and non-BAE group in this study. Based on computed tomography (CT) and bronchoscopic findings, tumor debulking was used to reconstruct the airway during interventional bronchoscopy. The primary outcome was the incidence of severe bleeding during bronchoscopic procedures. Bleeding-related complications, Karnofsky performance score (KPS) and dyspnea score were also analyzed over a 1-month observation period.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between the two groups in baseline characteristics, including patients' features, tumor morphology under CT scannings, tumor site, and obstruction degree under bronchoscopic examination. Procedure-related bleeding occurred in all 31 patients. Pre-bronchoscopic BAE significantly reduced the incidence of moderate and major bleeding when compared with that in the non-BAE group. The incidence of poor visualization and hypoxia was also reduced significantly in the BAE group. There was no significant difference in KPS and dyspnea score between the BAE and non-BAE groups at 1 month follow up.

CONCLUSION

Pre-bronchoscopic BAE might be a feasible option to reduce the risk of severe bleeding for CAO patients due to metastatic RCC during bronchoscopic intervention. Interventional bronchoscopy was a safe and effective procedure for CAO due to metastatic RCC.The reviews of this paper are available via the supplemental material section.

[Metastasis of clear cell renal cell carcinoma into small bowel in 5 years after nephrectomy]

Small bowel tumor causes gastrointestinal bleeding in 1-4% of cases. Gastrointestinal bleeding from metastases of renal cell carcinoma is a rare and little-known manifestation of this disease. We report a rare clinical case of a solitary metastasis of clear cell renal cell carcinoma into small bowel in 5 years after nephrectomy. The first symptom was intestinal bleeding. This example emphasizes the need for more thorough examination of patients with symptoms of latent and anamnestic blood loss.

Colonic metastasis of renal cell carcinoma following curative nephrectomy: A case report and review of the literature

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Colonic metastasis of the renal cell carcinoma (RCC) following curative nephrectomy is an extremely rare.

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Early diagnosis of colonic metastasis of the RCC is an important for survival.

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Surgical resection is a effective treatment method for colonic metastasis of the RCC.

Introduction

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a rare tumor that comprises only 3% of adult cancers, while renal parenchymal tumors constitute 85% of all RCC cases. RCC frequently metastasizes to the lungs, bones, brain or liver; however, the gastrointestinal tract, particularly the colon, is an unusual location for metastasis.

Case report

A 63-year-old male patient was admitted complaining of hematochezia. The patient had undergone left-side nephrectomy for RCC, 5 years previously. Computed tomography and colonoscopy detected a splenic flexure tumor and after left hemicolectomy and splenectomy, histopathological examination revealed a colonic metastasis of the renal cell carcinoma.

Discussion

Cases of colonic metastasis following resection of a RCC are uncommon in the literature and their location can be very varied, but include the sigmoid colon, splenic flexure, transvers colon and hepatic flexure. Recurrence of RCC is frequently seen during the first three postoperative years, and surgical resection is suggested for solitary non-metastatic tumor.

Conclusion

RCC rarely metastases to the colon but may occur years after curative resection. Therefore, RCC patients should be closely followed for the long term. In case of isolated metastasis, long-term survival can be achieved with R0 resection.

Solitary Duodenal Metastasis from Renal Cell Carcinoma with Metachronous Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor: Review of Literature with a Case Discussion

Renal cell cancinoma (RCC) is a unique malignancy with features of late recurrences, metastasis to any organ, and frequent association with second malignancy. It most commonly metastasizes to the lungs, bones, liver, renal fossa, and brain although metastases can occur anywhere. RCC metastatic to the duodenum is especially rare, with only few cases reported in the literature. Herein, we review literature of all the reported cases of solitary duodenal metastasis from RCC and cases of neuroendocrine tumor (NET) as synchronous/metachronous malignancy with RCC. Along with this, we have described a unique case of an 84-year-old man who had recurrence of RCC as solitary duodenal metastasis after 37 years of radical nephrectomy and metachronous pancreatic NET.

Local recurrence of renal cell carcinoma presented with massive gastrointestinal bleeding: management with renal artery embolization

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal bleeding from renal cell carcinoma metastasis is an uncommon manifestation of tumor recurrence and is usually difficult to control. Palliative trans-catheter embolization to control the bleeding has been used and described in the literature.

CASE PRESENTATION

The present report describes a 62- years-old male with local recurrence of RCC who presented with upper GI bleeding as the primary manifestation 10 years after right-sided partial nephrectomy. A pseudoaneurysm of renal artery with erosion into the duodenal lumen was responsible for the massive bleeding and was controlled with coil embolization.

CONCLUSION

This case report highlights the importance of high index suspicion in post-nephrectomy patients for RCC, presenting with new symptoms. Aggressive gastrointestinal workup and adequate awareness of available minimally-invasive endovascular options for controlling GIB in these patients, are of paramount importance.

Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma Presenting as a Bleeding Gastric Polyp

Background

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is responsible for nearly 13,000 deaths in the United States every year, predominantly because of metastasis to other bodily organs. However, metastasis of RCC to the stomach occurs rarely; it presents as solitary or multiple polyps or as ulcers concerning for primary gastric carcinoma. Bleeding from metastasis to the stomach is a rare and underrecognized cause of gastrointestinal bleeding. We describe a case of gastrointestinal bleeding in an elderly female who was found to have a gastric polyp of RCC origin.

Case Report

An 83-year-old female presented to our hospital for evaluation of an acute right basal ganglia hemorrhage after falling at her nursing home. Her hospital course was notable for melenic stool and anemia. Upper endoscopy revealed a single 40-mm pedunculated polyp and active bleeding on the lesser curvature of the stomach. Polypectomy and clipping were performed. Pathology was consistent with metastatic clear cell RCC. The patient's family declined a referral to oncology for evaluation of the newly diagnosed malignancy and opted for hospice care.

Conclusion

This case illustrates the potential for metastatic RCC to involve the stomach and cause gastrointestinal bleeding and anemia. The case also illustrates the role of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in diagnosing and treating metastatic causes of gastrointestinal bleeding.

A rare cause of intestinal bleeding: duodenal metastasis from endometrial cancer

With this report we alert to an extremely rare case of duodenal metastases, from an endometrial adenocarcinoma by lymphatic spread and whose primary manifestation was with gastrointestinal bleeding. We think this is the first case reported of duodenal metastases from endometrial carcinoma and with this presentation.

Metastatic renal cell carcinoma initially presenting with hematochezia and subsequently with vaginal bleeding: a case report

Background

We report an unusual case of a synchronous rectal and metachronous vaginal metastatic renal cell carcinoma.

Case presentation

A 78-year-old woman presented with hematochezia and a colonoscopy revealed a metastatic clear-cell renal cell carcinoma rectal polyp biopsy-proven. Abdominal computed tomography identified a 9.0-cm left renal mass with renal vein thrombosis, for which she underwent a laparoscopic radical nephrectomy. Histopathological examination confirmed a pT_3a clear-cell renal cell carcinoma. Seven months later, the patient presented with vaginal bleeding. Physical examination revealed a vaginal polypoid mass and biopsy confirmed a clear-cell renal cell carcinoma metastasis.

Conclusions

This case represents unusual manifestations of metastatic renal cell carcinoma and is a reminder of the wide spectrum of clinical course of this disease.

Duodenal Metastases From Renal Cell Carcinoma Presented With Melena: Review and Case Report

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) metastasis to duodenum is very rare and only a few case reports are available in the literature. We here reported a patient with solitary duodenal metastasis presented with melena six years after right nephrectomy. The patient underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy showing ulcerative mass at the second portion of duodenum and biopsy of this mass was consistent with metastatic RCC. Metastasis work up did not find any other site of malignancy, thus Whipple's operation (Pancreaticoduodenectomy) was performed. In conclusion metastasis from RCC should be considered in mind in patients with history of nephrectomy presenting with gastrointestinal symptoms and a complete evaluation, especially endoscopic examination followed by biopsy, is suggested.

Small bowel intussusception from renal cell carcinoma metastasis: a case report and review of the literature

Background

Renal cell carcinoma is the most frequent malignant neoplasia of the kidney accounting for 90 % of all renal solid tumors. Metastases from renal cell carcinoma are rarely located in the small bowel and generally their clinical presentation includes bleeding and obstruction. Intussusception in adults is an extremely rare pathological condition and only 30 to 35 % of small bowel intussusceptions are derived from malignant lesions.

Case presentation

We report here a clinical case of a 75-year-old white man hospitalized for anemia and subocclusion. An abdominal ultrasound and computed tomography showed a small bowel intussusception. During a surgical exploration, a polypoid lesion was found to be the lead point of the intussusception. His small intestine was resected and a functional side-to-side anastomosis was performed. The histological features of the surgical specimen confirmed the diagnosis of metastatic renal cell carcinoma.

Conclusions

Small bowel intussusception from renal cell carcinoma metastasis should always be considered in the setting of unexplained intestinal subocclusion in patients with a history of renal cell carcinoma.

A Rare Case of the Simultaneous, Multifocal, Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma to the Ipsilateral Left Testes, Bladder, and Stomach

We describe the rare case of a 68-year-old gentleman with the history of a hand-assisted laparoscopic left radical nephrectomy for a T2bN0M1 clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Seven years after surgery and with clean surveillance imaging for metastasis/recurrence the patient presented with three separate tumors suspicious for malignancy. A bladder lesion was found during workup for hematuria, a stomach lesion during diagnostic endoscopy, and a testicular lesion during self-exam. He underwent transurethral resection of bladder tumor, left inguinal orchiectomy, and upper endoscopic ensnarement. All specimens surprisingly showed RCC by histology and immunostaining. These three sites are rare for RCC metastasis and simultaneous presentation is even rarer, further emphasizing the importance of continuous and careful follow-up in this patient population, despite what could appear as complete remission.

Solitary jejunal metastasis from renal cell carcinoma presenting as small bowel obstruction 19 years after nephrectomy

Metachronous metastatic disease may develop in up to 50% of patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) who have undergone a presumably curative radical nephrectomy. We describe a case of small bowel obstruction secondary to a solitary jejunal RCC metastasis affecting a 66-year-old man with a history of RCC, which was treated 19 years earlier by right radical nephrectomy. The patient underwent successful laparotomy and wide margin resection of the affected small bowel with end-to-end anastomosis. A subsequent staging CT revealed no other metastases. To our knowledge, only eight cases of isolated small bowel metastasis from RCC have been reported. Of these, only one previous report referred to a longer time interval to small bowel metastasis than our case. The case highlights that isolated bowel metastasis should be considered as a possible aetiology of small bowel obstruction, even in patients with a distant history of presumably curative cancer treatment.

Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma: An Unusual Cause of Bleeding Pancreatic Mass

Renal Cell Carcinoma metastasizing to pancreas is uncommon, occurring in 1-2% of cases; lung being the most common site. It is usually asymptomatic, or may present as abdominal pain, weight loss, pancreatitis or gastrointestinal bleeding. Herein, we present a case of 75-year-old male presented as intraabdominal bleeding to the Emergency Department. Contrast enhanced computed tomography with angiography of abdomen showed lobulated soft tissue mass in the uncinate process region, infiltrating into the distal third and proximal fourth part of duodenum. A clinico-radiological diagnosis of carcinoma head of pancreas infiltrating into duodenum was made and the patient underwent Whipple's operation. With past history of nephrectomy 3 years back, microscopy and the immunoprofile; a final diagnosis of clear cell renal cell carcinoma metastasizing to pancreas was given on histopathology. A high index of suspicion is required for patients with a history of RCC and they should be monitored lifelong for early detection of metastases and to improve survival.

An obscure cause of gastrointestinal bleeding: Renal cell carcinoma metastasis to the small bowel

Renal cell carcinoma metastasis to the small intestine is a rare condition. It usually results in gastrointestinal bleeding and it could happen many years after the diagnosis with renal cell cancer. Treatment includes surgery as well as targeted agents such as tyrosine kinases. We report here the case of an 82-year-old man with a past medical history of high-grade renal cell carcinoma and right nephrectomy 6 years earlier, who presented with recurrent episodes of syncope and black stools. He underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and colonoscopy without evident source of bleeding. Video capsule endoscopy (VCE) showed three bleeding lesions in the jejunum and ileum. Push enteroscopy revealed a proximal jejunum bleeding mass that was suspicious for malignancy. Histopathology demonstrated poorly differentiated carcinoma. Given the patient's history of high-grade renal cell carcinoma, and similarity of histologic changes to the old renal cell cancer specimen, metastatic renal cell carcinoma was felt to be the responsible etiology.

Honokiol suppresses metastasis of renal cell carcinoma by targeting KISS1/KISS1R signaling

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a common urological cancer worldwide and is known to have a high risk of metastasis, which is considered responsible for more than 90% of cancer associated deaths. Honokiol is a small-molecule biphenol isolated from Magnolia spp. bark and has been shown to be a potential anticancer agent involved in multiple facets of signal transduction. In this study, we demonstrated that honokiol inhibited the invasion and colony formation of highly metastatic RCC cell line 786-0 in a dose-dependent manner. DNA-microarray data showed the significant upregulation of metastasis-suppressor gene KISS1 and its receptor, KISS1R. The upregulation was confirmed by qRT-PCR analysis. Overexpression of KISS1 and KISS1R was detected by western blotting at the translation level as well. Of note, the decreased invasive and colonized capacities were reversed by KISS1 knockdown. Taken together, the results first indicate that activation of KISS1/KISS1R signaling by honokiol suppresses multistep process of metastasis, including invasion and colony formation, in RCC cells 786-0. Honokiol may be considered as a natural agent against RCC metastasis.

New insights into glomerular parietal epithelial cell activation and its signaling pathways in glomerular diseases

The glomerular parietal epithelial cells (PECs) have aroused an increasing attention recently. The proliferation of PECs is the main feature of crescentic glomerulonephritis; besides that, in the past decade, PEC activation has been identified in several types of noninflammatory glomerulonephropathies, such as focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, diabetic glomerulopathy, and membranous nephropathy. The pathogenesis of PEC activation is poorly understood; however, a few studies delicately elucidate the potential mechanisms and signaling pathways implicated in these processes. In this review we will focus on the latest observations and concepts about PEC activation in glomerular diseases and the newest identified signaling pathways in PEC activation.

An unusual case of metastatatic renal cell carcinoma presenting as melena and duodenal ulcer, 16 years after nephrectomy; a case report and review of the literature

Renal cell carcinoma comprises about 2% of adult tumors. The overall 10-year survival rate of patients with RCC after nephrectomy is about 18-27%. The incidence of metastasis of initial RCC is about 24-28%, but this rate after nephrectomy is as high as 51%. The most common site of recurrence is the lung, however liver and bone metastases are common. There are many reported cases with late metastasis, however isolated late metastasis in the gastrointestinal tract especially duodenum is very rare. Herein we report our experience with a case of gastrointestinal bleeding secondary to metastatic renal cell carcinoma to duodenum, 16 years after nephrectomy. To the best of our knowledge, about 30 of such cases have been reported in the English literature. Many of the previous cases have been part of disseminated disease and isolated duodenal metastasis is very rare. The longest reported duration between nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma and duodenal metastasis has been 13 years, thus it seems our case to be also unique because of very late duodenal metastasis.

Metastatic renal cell carcinoma mimicking diverticulitis in a patient with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia

We present an unusual case of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) mimicking diverticulitis in a 76-year-old man with a 16-year history of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) and a 2 cm left renal mass. The patient presented with severe abdominal pain and lower gastrointestinal bleeding with anticoagulation from recent pulmonary embolism. His clinical course was troubled by recurrent hospitalisations and complications that delayed investigations and potential treatments. Radiographic findings revealed stable CLL, mild sigmoid diverticulitis and a small renal mass. Small renal masses (less than 4 cm) are considered low risk for metastasising and are, thus, often observed or ablated, rather than resected. Furthermore, gastrointestinal metastases from RCC are rare. This case adds new perspective to the unpredictable nature of RCC and how synchronous malignancies may be masked in patients with long-standing CLL.

Patterns of recurrence and surveillance strategies for renal cell carcinoma following surgical resection

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) remains one of the most lethal urologic malignancies, with up to 40% of patients eventually dying of cancer progression. Despite advances in the diagnosis, staging and treatment of patients with RCC, approximately a third of patients who undergo surgery for clinically localized RCC will suffer a recurrence. Timely identification of recurrences following surgical extirpation is imperative in the treatment of these patients. RCC is known to metastasize through hematogenous routes of spread to distant organ sites and via lymphatic channels to regional lymph nodes. The path of tumor escape is associated with diverse clinical outcomes and a unique tumor biology. A consensus on surveillance regimens for patients following surgical resection of localized disease is lacking. The most extensively used system for providing prognostic information regarding survival and recurrence of disease has historically been the tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) classification system. As a result, most contemporary surveillance protocols have tailored follow-up regimens according to stage-based stratifications. Numerous studies have recently demonstrated that certain clinical and histopathological factors can improve the prediction of tumor recurrence. The incorporation of these prognostic factors into stage-based stratification models should be better than stage alone in attempting to provide a rational approach to identifying treatable recurrences while minimizing unnecessary exams and tests, as well as patient anxiety. Advances in the understanding of the pathogenesis, behavior and molecular biology of RCC have paved the way for developments that may enhance early diagnosis and prognostication, and improve survival for patients. Lastly, molecular markers should, in the future, revolutionize surveillance protocols for RCC by tailoring follow-up to specific molecular classifications.

Renal cell carcinoma initially presenting as an arteriovenous malformation: a case presentation and a review of the literature

We describe a case of a patient who presented with hematuria and was diagnosed with a renal arteriovenous malformation (AVM). Transcatheter arterial embolization subsequently was performed on this lesion multiple times. Follow-up imaging demonstrated that the AVM was masking an underlying, rapidly growing renal cell carcinoma (RCC). We describe the pathological and radiographic characteristics of AVMs and RCC. We describe the strengths and weaknesses of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to detect and characterize RCC and AVM. We recommend initial and follow-up MR imaging in patients with an AVM to establish a baseline, monitor treatment response, and survey lesions for underlying and obscured malignancy.

Metastatic renal cell carcinoma in an ovarian benign mixed mucinous cystadenoma and brenner tumour: a case report

This is a case of a 71-year-old woman, who presented with a large abdominal mass. Microscopic examination revealed metastatic renal cell carcinoma in an otherwise massively enlarged benign ovarian tumour of mixed mucinous cystadenoma and Brenner tumour. Clinicopathological and radiological assessment together with a thorough evaluation of gross and histological features, including the use of immunohistochemical stains, is essential to confirm the diagnosis and rule out the possibility of primary clear cell carcinoma of ovary, as this has important prognostic and therapeutic implications.

Wnt signaling in kidney development and disease

The Wnt gene family, which encodes secreted growth and differentiation factors, has been implicated in kidney organogenesis. The Wnts control both ureteric bud development and signaling, but they also serve as inductive factors to regulate nephrogenesis in the mesenchcymal cells. Several of the Wnt genes are expressed in the developing kidney, and gene knock-out studies have revealed specific developmental functions for these. Consistent with this, changes in Wnt ligands and pathway components are associated with many kidney diseases, including kidney cancers, renal fibrosis, cystic kidney diseases, acute renal failure, diabetic nephropathy and ischaemic injury. It is these associations of the Wnt signaling system with kidney development and kidney diseases that form to topic of this review.

Metastatic gastric tumors arising from renal cell carcinoma: Clinical characteristics and outcomes of this uncommon disease

We analyzed the clinicopathological characteristics and therapeutic outcomes of patients with metastatic gastric tumors arising from renal cell carcinoma (RCC) to identify post-therapy prognostic factors. A total of 22 patients who were treated for metastatic gastric tumors arising from RCC were included in the study. A retrospective review was performed on the clinical characteristics of this disease. The median time interval from radical excision of the primary tumor to the detection of gastric metastasis (IGM) was 6.3 years. The overall 1- and 3-year survival rates were 52.6 and 21.0%, respectively, and the median survival time was 19 months. Compared with patients with an IGM of <6.3 years, patients with an IGM of ≥6.3 years showed a significantly longer median survival time (5 vs. 24 months; P=0.017). The median tumor size was significantly greater in patients with multiple metastases compared with those with solitary metastasis (4 vs. 2 cm; P=0.036). The incidence of patients who had undergone therapeutic tumor resection was significantly higher in patients with solitary metastasis compared with those with multiple metastases (100.0 vs. 35.7%; P=0.019). The appearance of gastric tumors in patients with a history of RCC should prompt the clinician to investigate the possibility of metastasis even several years after detection of the original renal cancer. A longer interval from nephrectomy to the diagnosis of gastric metastasis is generally indicative of a better prognosis, most likely the result of less aggressive tumor growth.

Recurrent renal cell cancer presenting as gastrointestinal bleed

We present an unusual case of renal cell cancer (RCC) which relapsed with duodenal metastasis and unveiled itself by gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. An 80-year old Caucasian gentleman with history of renal cell cancer status post nephrectomy 11 mo previously, presented with syncope and melena. Computed tomography scan of the abdomen revealed heterogeneous soft tissue mass in the right nephrectomy bed invading the duodenum. Upper GI endoscopic biopsy confirmed the presence of recurrent renal cell cancer. However, due to extensive metastatic disease, the patient was placed on palliative chemotherapy as surgical options were ruled out. Our case report reiterates the fact that renal cell carcinoma can recur with gastrointestinal manifestations and, although a rarity, it should be considered in a patient with a history of malignancy who presents with these symptoms.

Using Sonography to Characterize Renal Cell Carcinoma: Case Study of a Large Renal Mass

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is both the most common—and deadly—renal tumor in the adult population. It is categorized into various subtypes, with clear cell RCC being the most common of those. Sonography, in addition to other imaging modalities, is important in discovering, describing, staging, and ultimately predicting the outcome of RCC. This article presents a case study of a woman in her 60s diagnosed with late clear cell RCC with multiple metastases. It also addresses recent literature regarding outcomes for this disease.

Bronchial artery embolization before interventional bronchoscopy to avoid uncontrollable bleeding: a case report of endobronchial metastasis of renal cell carcinoma

Extreme caution should be taken to avoid uncontrollable bleeding in treating hypervascular tumors via bronchoscope. We report two cases of endobronchial metastasis of renal cell carcinoma treated with bronchial artery embolization (BAE) before endoscopic treatments. The intraluminal lesions were removed swiftly and safely. Although arterial embolization is not always efficacious in cases of tracheal lesions, BAE is effective for tumors located in the carina, bilateral main bronchus or intermediate bronchus. The addition of BAE before endoscopic tumor removal should be considered a treatment option in patients suffering from airway obstructions due to hypervascular tumors such as renal cell carcinoma.

Metastatic Renal Cell Cancer and a Gastric Mass: An Unusual Finding

Renal cell cancer (RCC) accounts for approximately 3% of all adult malignancies. RCC has a metastasis rate of approximately 25%, which is most commonly to the lungs (>50%). On the contrary, RCC metastasis to the gastrointestinal tract (excluding the liver) is very uncommon and ranges from 0.2 to 0.7%. Thus, a gastric cancer in a patient with known metastatic RCC would most likely be secondary to metastasis. We present the first reported case of a metastatic RCC coexisting with a new-onset primary gastric cancer and a review of management using guidelines from metastatic RCC to the stomach. An 82-year-old African American male with papillary RCC status post left nephrectomy with recurrence of liver metastasis presented with failure to thrive shortly after his third cycle of chemotherapy despite stable disease by imaging studies. He had received 7 chemotherapy cycles of Gemzar, Nexavar, and Avastin prior to admission. He subsequently had a drop in his hemoglobin and was found to have hemoccult positive stool in the setting of recent Avastin. Endoscopic evaluation showed a 3 cm ulcerated mass in the cardia which was biopsied. The biopsy showed invasive and poorly differentiated gastric adenocarcinoma unrelated to his RCC. The patient subsequently underwent partial gastrectomy with loop gastrojejunostomy for resection of his stage 1 primary gastric adenocarcioma. The surgery also facilitated future chemotherapy (Avastin), which could not be given prior to surgery due to its side effect of bleeding. The patient did not receive adjuvant chemoradiation for his gastric cancer due to his comorbidities at the time and was doing well at a one month follow-up. Metastatic RCC and primary gastric cancer can coexist, especially when there is an overlap of risk factors such as smoking or nitrosamines. The management of a gastric cancer in the setting of metastatic RCC is similar to the management of solitary primary gastric carcinoma. Treatment of the primary gastric cancer can facilitate future chemotherapy such as Avastin, which has been recently approved for the treatment of metastatic RCC.

A Case of Metastatic Renal Cell Cancer Presenting as Jaundice

Renal cell carcinoma is the second most common urological malignancy and it runs a highly variable clinical course. We describe a case of metastatic renal cell carcinoma in a 50-year-old lady with metastasis to the ampulla of Vater, clinically masquerading as cholelithiasis and biliary colic. The clinical, radiographic and endoscopic findings are presented. Ampullary metastases are rare, and prompt recognition and intervention are necessary before patient's performance status is compromised.

Arterial embolization for the management of gastrointestinal hemorrhage from metastatic renal cell carcinoma

Patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) involving the gastrointestinal (GI) tract may present with hemorrhage. Eight arterial embolization procedures were performed to treat five upper GI lesions and one ileal metastatic RCC lesion in five patients with GI bleeding. Control of GI hemorrhage for at least 30 days was achieved following six of the eight embolizations (75%) in four of the five patients (80%). Duration of response ranged from 1 to 26 months. Complications including GI ischemia and nontarget embolization were not encountered. Arterial embolization can be used safely for palliation of hemorrhage from RCC metastases to the GI tract.

Sternal metastasis as an initial presentation of renal cell carcinoma: a case report

Renal cell carcinoma accounts for 85% of all solid renal tumors in adults. Nearly one quarter of patients has distant metastasis at presentation while another 50% develop metastasis during follow-up. A small percentage of these are solitary metastasis. We report here a case of solitary bone sternal metastasis as an initial presentation of clear-cell renal cell carcinoma in a 56-year-old woman. The prognosis for patients with metastasized renal cell carcinoma is poor; treatment of metastasis is usually palliative and designed to provide comfort and pain relief. Palliative nephrectomy may be considered for control of symptoms. Radical nephrectomy associated with metastatic bone tumor resection is being tested to improve functional status and survival, especially when metastasis involves supporting bones.

Renal cell carcinoma metastasis to the ovary: a case report

A 54-year-old woman referred to a specialist unit for weight loss, lethargy, and a palpable pelvic mass. Thought to have ovarian cancer metastasized to the kidney, underwent a left nephrectomy and para-aortic clearance, with a total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy with peritoneal biopsies. Histology proved it was actually a renal cell carcinoma metastasized to the ovaries. During further follow ups she had developed bone and pulmonary metastasis and died shortly after the diagnosis of metastasis. With only 14 reported cases in the literature increased awareness would aid management of similar cases.