Plasma cell granuloma: A case report of multiple lesions in the lung and review of the literature

BACKGROUND: Although plasma cell granuloma is a rare tumor in the lung, it must be considered in the differential diagnosis of lung cancer. It typically presents as a solitary lesion. Involvement with multiple lesions can be a presenting picture of plasma cell granuloma; however, the incidence is much lower than that of a solitary lesion. PROCEDURES AND FINDINGS: A 35-year-old man was evaluated for intermittent chest pain over a 6-year period. CT showed the presence of one mass and three nodules in the left lung. The initial diagnosis was metastatic lung cancer. CT guided biopsy suggested the diagnosis of plasma cell granuloma. All the lesions were resected with a thoracotomy procedure. Pathology evaluation confirmed the diagnosis. For the 3 years he received follow-up care, he remained asymptomatic. CONCLUSIONS: Multiple lung nodules or masses can be a presenting manifestation of plasma cell granuloma. It should be differentiated from metastatic neoplasm. Surgery resection is the treatment of choice.