A Case of Induction Chemoimmunotherapy and Sleeve Lobectomy to Avoid Pneumonectomy for Central Squamous Cell Lung Cancer

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Recently, neoadjuvant immunotherapy plus chemotherapy has been provided for patients with stage II-III resectable lung cancer. We report a case in which a pneumonectomy was avoided by administrating neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy.

CASE PRESENTATION: An 81-year-old man presented with a cough. Examination showed squamous cell lung cancer in the right lower lobe extending to the central side of the upper lobe, which would have required a pneumonectomy for complete resection. Neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy was administered to reduce the extent of pulmonary resection due to the patient’s advanced age and impaired pulmonary function. Post-treatment examination showed tumor size reduction, and bronchoscopy showed disappearance of right upper bronchial erythema and persistent erythema of the bronchus intermedius. A sleeve right lower lobectomy was performed. Histopathological findings revealed complete resection of the cancerous lesion and a major pathological response.

CONCLUSIONS: Sleeve lobectomy after preoperative chemoimmunotherapy for an elder patient with low pulmonary function was safe and efficient.