Published Paper Details:

Neuroendocrine small cell carcinoma (SCLC) is an aggressive form of lung cancer with a high propensity for early metastasis. The most common sites of metastasis are regional lymph nodes, liver, bones, and brain. However, metastasis to the spinal cord is an exceedingly rare occurrence. This case report presents a rare instance of a neuroendocrine small cell neoplasm that originated in the lungs and extended to the spinal cord, initially presenting with a pleural effusion. A 50 years old female patient was presented with the complaints of breathing difficulty, left sided chest pain and palpitaton was admitted in the pulmonology department. The patient had history of Rheumatic heart disease and has undergone balloon mitral valvuloplasty in 2009. According to CECT thorax, USG abdomen and pelvis the patient had pleural effusion. MRI dorsal spine with cervical spine screening suggested malignant neurogenic tumor. Based on biopsy from left pleural effusion the patient was found to have metastatic neuroendocrine neoplasm possibly small cell carcinoma. The clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, and treatment strategy are discussed in light of current literature. This case highlights the complexity of diagnosing such rare metastases and emphasizes the importance of early recognition and multi-disciplinary management in such aggressive neoplasms.