A Rare Case of Extracranial Metastatic Glioblastoma: Lung Infiltration as an Uncommon Presentation

Background: Glioblastoma is the most prevalent and aggressive primary malignant brain tumor, known for its rapid growth and local invasion. While it predominantly remains within the central nervous system, extracranial metastasis is extremely rare, involving the liver, lymph nodes, thorax, spleen, and bones. Thoracic involvement is often associated with the worst prognosis. Aim: This paper presents a unique case of lung metastasis from glioblastoma, highlighting the diagnostic challenges and clinical implications associated with this phenomenon. Case Presentation: A 54-year-old male presented with a 10-day history of worsening headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory loss, and behavioral changes. A brain CT scan revealed a cystic mass in the left frontal lobe, raising suspicion of malignancy. A chest CT scan showed an irregular cavitary mass in the right lung. Surgical resection of the brain mass confirmed glioblastoma. Transthoracic fine-needle aspiration biopsy of the lung mass revealed metastatic glioblastoma cells. Immunohistochemical analysis indicated high Ki-67 proliferation rates, confirming the aggressive nature of the tumor. Despite adjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy, the patient’s condition deteriorated, and he succumbed to the disease nine months post-diagnosis. Conclusion: This case underscores the importance of thorough diagnostic evaluation in patients with brain masses to avoid misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment. It highlights the potential for glioblastoma to metastasize beyond the central nervous system, facilitated by systemic circulation and lymphatic spread. Timely surgical intervention and comprehensive treatment strategies are crucial in managing glioblastoma and improving patient outcomes. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind extracranial metastasis in glioblastoma.