Spontaneous regression of a pulmonary metastasis after nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma

Abstract
Regressions of metastases following nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma are rare. Most reported cases have involved pulmonary metastases. Hormonal and immunological mechanisms have been postulated. A case is described of a pulmonary metastasis which regressed after nephrectomy and which failed to recur despite the later appearance of new sites of pulmonary metastases. The literature is reviewed.