18F-FDG PET/CT identifies isolated metastasis of renal cancer in a patient with end-stage renal disease: A case report.

RATIONALE: Individuals with end-stage renal disease have a considerably higher rate of malignant tumors, especially renal cancer, in comparison to the general population. However, cases in which bone metastases in the humerus are the initial clinical presentation that results in a diagnosis of renal cancer are extremely rare. Diagnosing renal cancer in patients with end-stage renal disease can be challenging when the clinical symptoms are atypical and do not present the "renal cancer triad." Our case report highlights the diagnostic importance of positron emission tomography/computed tomography (CT) imaging, increases clinicians' awareness of the disease, explores the potential etiology of renal cancer associated with end-stage renal disease, and provides insights into diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

PATIENT CONCERNS: A 58-year-old man, who has undergone multiple renal transplants and maintenance dialysis therapy for over 20 years due to renal failure, arrived at our hospital with complaints of left shoulder pain and progressive worsening. CT revealed unexplained osteolytic destruction and fracture in the left humerus. The 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/CT scan detected soft tissue lesions in the left kidney and exhibited increased fluorodeoxyglucose uptake.

DIAGNOSES: Upon conducting a biopsy on the patient's left humerus, metastatic renal cancer was diagnosed.

INTERVENTIONS: The patient selected conservative treatment, and the injured humerus was immobilized to stabilize the affected area. There was no additional active treatment for renal cancer.

OUTCOMES: As of the time of submission, the patient's pain had markedly intensified, requiring oral pain medication for symptomatic relief.

LESSONS: It is indeed rare for bone metastasis in the humerus to be the initial clinical sign that leads to the diagnosis of renal cancer in patients with end-stage renal disease. Through this case report, we aimed to enhance awareness and deepen understanding of renal cancer associated with end-stage renal disease.