Journal of medical case reports
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The dorsal root ganglion is a rare manifestation of metastatic spread. We report what we believe to be the first case of metastasis of a pulmonary adenocarcinoma to the lumbar dorsal root ganglion. Only four descriptions for different primary tumors spreading to the dorsal root ganglion have been described in the literature so far. ⋯ Dorsal root ganglion metastases seem to be extremely rare and can mimic primary local nerve sheath tumors. Therefore, they usually present as incidental findings. Resection should be performed strictly under intraoperative monitoring as tumor spread between the nerve fibers is commonly observed. Metastases should be taken into account in spinal nerve tumors involving the dorsal root ganglion, especially in patients harboring known malignant diseases. The low incidence means that no clear treatment advice can be given. Resection is possible under intraoperative monitoring and relieves neurological symptoms.
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Pulmonary artery thrombosis is one of the most important complications in patients with nephrotic syndrome. It is well known among nephrologists, however, that this possibly lethal complication very rarely occurs before the diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome. ⋯ An awareness regarding the complication of pulmonary artery thrombosis in nephrotic syndrome is important not only for nephrologists but for all clinicians. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography is crucial to detect pulmonary artery thrombosis.
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Winged scapula is defined as the prominence of the medial border of the scapula. The classic etiopathology of scapular winging are injuries to the spinal accessory or long thoracic nerves resulting respectively in trapezius and serratus anterior palsy. To the best of our knowledge, there are only few reports of scapular lesions being mistaken for winging of the scapula. We report a rare case of a large scapular osteochondroma arising from the medial border and causing a pseudowinging of the scapula. ⋯ Despite its rarity osteochondroma should be considered in the differential diagnosis for any adolescent presenting with a winging of the scapula.