Cerebral metastasis in recurrent squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva: case report and review of the literature

Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2020 Feb;301(2):327-332. doi: 10.1007/s00404-019-05403-6. Epub 2019 Dec 10.

Abstract

Background: Distant metastases from squamous cell cancer of the vulva (VSCC) are encountered rarely and are associated with a poor prognosis. Cerebral metastases have only been described anecdotally.

Case history: A 51-year old woman was diagnosed with hepatic metastases due to VSCC. Initial therapy comprised wide local excision of the primary tumor with inguino-femoral lymphadenectomy (LAE) followed by stereotactic radiation of the singular hepatic metastasis while adjuvant chemoradiation of the vulva and lymphatics was declined. 3 years later, she subsequently developed lung and cerebral metastases.

Conclusion: The course of metastatic disease in VSCC is poorly understood. Further knowledge of the metastatic patterns in vulvar cancer is required for guidance of future therapeutic interventions.

Keywords: Brain metastases; Distant metastases; Prognosis; Squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain Neoplasms / pathology
  • Brain Neoplasms / secondary*
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Liver Neoplasms / pathology
  • Liver Neoplasms / secondary*
  • Liver Neoplasms / surgery
  • Lymph Node Excision
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasm Metastasis
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / pathology
  • Radiosurgery
  • Vulva / pathology
  • Vulvar Neoplasms / pathology
  • Vulvar Neoplasms / therapy