Administration of crizotinib through gastrostoma resolves esophageal occlusion caused by lymph node metastasis of squamous cell lung cancer with ROS1 fusion gene: a case report

Abstract

ROS1 fusion gene is rarely found in squamous cell lung cancer (SQCLC). We report a patient with SQCLC with ROS1 fusion gene, in which crizotinib administered through gastrostoma achieved a good response. A 77-year-old Japanese woman with no history of smoking underwent right lower lobectomy, and was diagnosed as stage IIA SQCLC. One year later, the disease recurred and her lymph nodes were enlarged by metastasis occluded esophagus. She had difficulty in eating and underwent percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy. ROS1 fusion gene was detected in a curated surgical specimen. Administration of crizotinib through gastrostoma resolved the occlusion, although the simultaneous administration of a low-dose of prednisolone was required to avoid neutropenia. She was then able to eat through her mouth. She has been on crizotinib therapy for more than one year and has remained symptom-free.