Successful treatment of multiple pulmonary metastases of adenoid cystic carcinoma of the external auditory meatus with TS-1

The patient, a 67-year old man, was referred to us with refractory otorrhea of the left ear. The diagnosis was adenoid cystic carcinoma of the external auditory meatus, so the primary focus was excised. During the postoperative observation period, multiple metastases to the lung were noted, for which TS-1 (120 mg/day, given for 28 consecutive days, each course followed by a discontinuation of 14 days) was administered. After the completion of 2 courses, reductions in the metastatic pulmonary lesions and the amount of pleural effusion were noted, while adverse effects were limited to mild anorexia. Thus, it was possible to continue medication for 15 months on an ambulatory basis. It was indicated that TS-1 may be effective in the treatment of multiple pulmonary metastases of adenoid cystic carcinoma.