Introduction: Metastases to the stomach from various primary malignancies is rare. Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) metastasis to the stomach is even more uncommon and should be suspected in patients complaining of the slightest of gastrointestinal symptoms. Here, we explore a rare case of gastric metastases from RCC, eleven years after radical nephrectomy diagnosed by endoscopy.
Case Description/Methods: We report the case of a 71-year-old Hispanic female, medical history pertinent for RCC and left nephrectomy, who presented with persistent left lower quadrant abdominal pain and normal bloodwork. Repeat imaging reveals a gastric mass, unseen on CT scans 3 weeks prior (Figure 1a). Endoscopy (Figure 1b), histopathological findings, and immunohistochemical staining (Figure 1c) were consistent with metastatic RCC. Given the poor prognosis, patient chose to undergo targeted systemic chemotherapy.
Discussion: In the past two decades, there have been a limited number of case reports in the literature of RCC metastatic to the stomach (Table 1). Although gastric metastasis is a late finding in the course of renal malignancy, detection can come from a thorough evaluation of presenting symptoms followed by appropriate diagnostic imaging. Additionally, this case also emphasizes the need for targeted treatment modalities for patients with poor prognoses.
