Vijayawada, Mangalagiri, Dec 19, 2023 – American Oncology Institute (AOI) Mangalagiri successfully treated a 42-year-old female, resident of Vinukonda suffering from a rare and aggressive stage 4 neuroendocrine carcinoma. The patient sought medical attention at AOI Mangalagiri presenting significant weight loss (10 kg in 3 months), loss of appetite, and prolonged constipation. Upon evaluation, she was diagnosed with an ulceroproliferative growth in the sigmoid colon, confirmed as grade 3 neuroendocrine carcinoma through biopsy.
The comprehensive diagnostic evaluation further revealed multiple liver lesions, solidifying the diagnosis of stage 4 neuroendocrine cancer of the sigmoid colon. At the time of admission, the patient exhibited severe weakness, abdominal distension, bilateral leg swelling, and excruciating abdominal pain, confining her to bed for 50% of her time.
Initiating treatment in July this year, AOI Mangalagiri’s Medical Oncology team administered the first cycle of palliative chemotherapy. However, the patient encountered a critical oncological emergency known as Tumor Lysis Syndrome during the treatment. This syndrome led to high levels of uric acid, potassium, creatinine, and acute kidney failure.
Dr. N. Subba Rao, Medical Director & Senior Medical Oncologist and Dr.Srujana Joga, Consultant Medical Oncologist at AOI Mangalagiri, emphasized, "Neuroendocrine carcinomas pose significant challenges due to their aggressive nature. Through comprehensive pre- and post-chemotherapy management strategies and prompt intervention during complications, we achieved a remarkably positive response to treatment in this patient."
Through meticulous care and prompt intervention, the medical team effectively managed the syndrome. Within 10 days of the chemotherapy, the patient experienced a remarkable improvement, with reduced leg swelling, decreased abdominal pain and distension, and normalized kidney function.
Mr. Mahendra Reddy, Regional Chief Operating Officer, American Oncology Institute, stated, "The successful treatment of this rare stage 4 neuroendocrine carcinoma case at AOI Mangalagiri underscores our relentless pursuit of excellence in cancer care. Our multidisciplinary approach, coupled with a focus on individualized patient care and cutting-edge treatments, exemplifies our commitment to combating cancer and restoring hope for patients and their families."
Over the course of the treatment, the patient successfully completed six cycles of chemotherapy. A subsequent re-evaluation through a PET-CT scan in November,2023 demonstrated near-complete resolution and metabolically inactive disease. She was transitioned to oral maintenance chemotherapy as part of the ongoing care plan. AOI Mangalagiri continues to focus on delivering advanced and personalized oncological care, reaffirming its commitment to fighting cancer and improving patient outcomes.
