Lymphoepithelioma-Like Carcinoma of the Esophagus: A Rare Tumor

J Coll Physicians Surg Pak. 2017 Sep;27(9):S114-S116.

Abstract

Lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma of esophagus is a rare tumor with about 20 cases reported worldwide. It can involve the salivary gland, esophagus, stomach, thymus, thyroid, breast, lung, uterus, cervix, urinary bladder, and the skin. Its association with Epstein Barr virus has been postulated. We report the case of a 45-year female who had been treated for hepatitis C and esophageal tuberculosis and recovered fully from these conditions. She presented with dysphagia of 2-3 month duration. Endoscopic examination revealed narrowing of the esophageal lumen with a fungating mass at the lower end of esophagus with no extension into the stomach. ACTscan confirmed a mass at the lower end of esophagus with multiple enlarged mediastinal lymph nodes. Histological and immunohistochemistry of esophageal biopsy sample showed lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma. She was managed with chemotherapy comprising of capecitabine, epirubicin and cisplatin followed by esophagectomy and made full recovery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Biopsy
  • Capecitabine / therapeutic use
  • Carcinoma / drug therapy
  • Carcinoma / pathology*
  • Cisplatin / therapeutic use
  • Epirubicin / therapeutic use
  • Esophageal Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Esophageal Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Esophagectomy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Middle Aged
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Epirubicin
  • Capecitabine
  • Cisplatin