• Lin Zhou, Xin-Yi Liu, Ya He, Lu-Ting Li, and Shao-Jin Zhang.
• Department of Radiology, Pidu District People's Hospital.
• Medicine (Baltimore). 2021 Feb 5; 100 (5): e24453e24453.

RationalePulmonary lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma (PLELC) is a rare type of primary malignant lung tumor characterized by Epstein-Barr virus infection, with, to the authors' knowledge, a total of only 500 reported cases during the past 30 years worldwide. Histologically, PLELC is similar to undifferentiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma and poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma. However, although PLELC accounts for <1% of all lung cancers, it has a better prognosis and is usually detected in non-smokers and individuals of Asian ancestry.Patient ConcernsThe patient presented with chest distress of no apparent cause, dizziness, headaches, and a feeling of disequilibrium without remission, as well as a pulmonary nodule incidentally detected on contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT).DiagnosisPLELC was confirmed histopathologically rather than on preoperative CT; nevertheless, CT findings still contributed to the diagnosis.InterventionsThe patient underwent thoracoscopic wedge resection of the affected lung.OutcomesThe patient recovered after the lung nodule was completely removed, and was discharged. No evidence of recurrence or metastasis was found at the latest follow-up appointment 2 months after the operation.LessonsPLELC is a rare bronchogenic carcinoma associated with lymphatic tissue with a favorable prognosis in most cases. With nonspecific clinical symptoms, specific radiological findings may facilitate an early diagnosis in some cases, followed by timely surgical intervention.Copyright © 2021 the Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

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