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Available online 12 September 2025
Unusual Case of Multiple and Delayed Recurrence of a Solitary Fibrous Tumor of the Pleura After Complete Resection
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Génesis Isabel Victoriano Soriano1,
, Begoña Gregorio Crespo1, José Soro García1
Servicio de Cirugía Torácica, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valladolid, Avenida Ramón y Cajal, 47006 Valladolid, Spain
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Pleural solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) is a rare mesenchymal neoplasm that accounts for less than 5% of all soft tissue tumors [1]. Although most SFTs are histologically benign, up to 12% may undergo malignant transformation. While typically solitary, multiple lesions are exceptionally rare [2]. Immunohistochemistry is essential for diagnosis and differentiation from other pleural neoplasms. Common markers include CD34 and STAT6 [1,3], and high p16 expression may indicate more aggressive behavior [5], justifying intensified monitoring. We present the case of a 69-year-old woman with no relevant medical history, who underwent complete resection in 2015 of a solitary right hemithorax SFT measuring 14.7cm×9cm, with no histological signs of malignancy. After seven years of annual surveillance, two right pleural lesions were detected, showing moderate uptake on positron emission tomography (PET) (SUVmax 3.06). Biportal right video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) was performed, revealing 33 well-defined, non-infiltrative lesions (1.5–10cm) in the parietal and visceral pleura and pericardiophrenic fat (Fig. 1). Histopathology confirmed recurrence, with strong expression of CD34, STAT6, p16, and a Ki-67 index of 12%. Although most SFTs have a benign course, up to 25% may recur following resection [4]. Long-term follow-up is essential, particularly when immunohistochemical markers suggest possible aggressive potential.

Fig. 1.

Intraoperative images obtained during right video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. (A and C) Multiple firm lesions on the parietal pleura. (B) Lesions located on the visceral pleura. (D) 33 resected specimens, ranging from 1.5 to 10cm.

Authors’ contributions

All authors actively participated in the analysis of the case and in the writing and critical revision of the manuscript. All authors approved the final version.

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During the preparation of this work, the authors used ChatGPT in order to assist with language polishing, structure, and formatting of the manuscript. After using this tool/service, the authors reviewed and edited the content as needed and take full responsibility for the content of the published article.

Funding

This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

Conflict of interests

The authors state that they have no conflict of interests.

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Actively contributed to the case review and analysis, initial drafting of the manuscript, and final editing.

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