Long-term stent implantation in a case of relapsing intrathoracic Ewing-sarcoma

The overall prognosis of relapsing Ewing sarcoma is poor and therapeutic op tions can be limited by extensive chemotherapeutic pretreatment. We report on a case of a 27-year-old male, presenting with a large mediastina[ mass a nd malignant pleural effusions. 5 years prior peripheral Ewing sarcoma had been treated according to the CESS 86 protocol. Relapse chemotherapy was in itiated (CESS protocol) but tumor progression led to stenoses of both main bronchi. At this critical point, 2 Strecker tantal stents were placed endos copically to prevent suffocation and provide the time for further chemother apy, regardless of the poor overall prognosis. Complete remission was achie ved by high-dose ifosfamide, surgery, radiotherapy and adjuvant ifosfamide. In spite or possible complications of long-term stent implantation, the st ents were not removed until 4 years later when stent dislocation occurred. After removal, the stents were epithelialized and electron microscopy demon strated structural integrity of the stent. The patient has remained in comp lete remission since (6 years)