Proptosis and a Dermal Lesion as the Presenting Sign of Lung Adenocarcinoma

Abstract

The purpose is to describe a clinical case of orbital metastases as the presentation sign of the primary tumor, and the importance of a multidisciplinary diagnosis. A 70-year-old man attended the Ophthalmology Department referring ocular pain. Mild proptosis and a dermal lesion in the neck were noticed. Biopsy of the dermal lesion and systemic work-up were compatible with lung adenocarcinoma with metastatic dissemination. After one cycle of palliative chemotherapy, patient’s medical condition worsened, and he eventually died. Although rare, orbital symptoms can be the initial clinical presentation preceding the diagnosis of the primary silent lung neoplasm. Ophthalmologist has an important role in diagnoses of metastatic orbital cancer. Involvement of the multidisciplinary team is important for diagnosis and treatment.

Keywords

• proptosis
• orbital metastases
• lung adenocarcinoma
• dermal lesion