The role of cranial radiotherapy in managing neurological symptoms of brain metastases from pulmonary choriocarcinoma: a case report and literature review

Résumé fourni par la source

BACKGROUND: Primary pulmonary choriocarcinoma (PPC) is a rare and highly malignant germ cell tumor. This tumor is prone to brain metastasis, severely affecting the quality of life of patients. The optimal treatment regimen for PPC brain metastasis remains undetermined, and there is a lack of support for the efficacy of radiotherapy in improving symptoms and the appropriate radiation exposure dose for such patients. CASE DESCRIPTION: We report a case of a 73-year-old Asian male with PPC and brain metastasis, who was admitted due to numbness and discomfort in his right limbs. Since the patient and his family initially refused chemotherapy due to his poor physical condition, he was first subjected to cranial radiotherapy. The patient received a total dose of 37.5 Gy in 15 fractions using intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), followed by an additional 8 Gy with CyberKnife. He demonstrated marked sensitivity to radiotherapy, with strong tolerance and compliance. Compared to admission, his neurological symptoms improved significantly, and tumor progression was effectively controlled. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that localized brain radiotherapy can significantly enhance the quality of life in patients with PPC and brain metastasis, with minimal adverse effects.

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