Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma in Nasopharynx-A Paradox: Case Report and Review of Literature

Abstract

Metastatic renal cell carcinoma of the head and neck is extremely rare. Metastasis to the nasopharynx is extremely unusual and can be misdiagnosed as primary of the specific site hindering further management. The present case report of an 82-year-old male presenting with epistaxis was found to have a nasopharyngeal mass on radiology. Microscopic evaluation of the nasopharyngeal mass revealed a highly vascular clear cell tumour with cells arranged in alveolar and trabecular pattern. Immunohistochemical assessment revealed positive PAX 8, CD10 and vimentin which are highly specific for metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Retrospective computed tomography scan revealed a renal mass; however, the patient succumbed before any biopsy could be performed.

Keywords

• clear cell tumour
• epistaxis
• immunohistochemistry