Gastric lymphoepithelial-like carcinoma presenting as a sub-mucosal mass: a case report and literature review

Background: Lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma of the stomach (LELC), also known as carcinoma with lymphoid stroma of the stomach, is a rare type of gastric cancer, accounting for approximately 1-4% of all gastric cancers. It is mainly associated with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. Here, we report a case of gastric lymphoepithelial-like carcinoma presenting as a submucosal mass that tested negative for EBV. Case description: a 70-yearold patient was diagnosed with a gastric mass through routine endoscopy. There was no abdominal pain, fever, hematemesis, chills, or other discomfort, and the patient had a history of hypertension. The complete blood count, blood chemistry, and tumor indices were normal, and the results for EBV infection were also negative. According to EUS, it was diagnosed as a gastric stromal tumor. The patient underwent endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). Pathological exams suggested that it was a low-differentiated carcinoma, and surgical dissection was performed. Conclusion: Cases of gastric LELC are rare, and clinicians need to improve their understanding of the disease to avoid misdiagnosis. The etiology and pathogenesis of this disease need further investigation.

Automated summary

Background: Gastric lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma (LELC) is a rare type of gastric cancer associated with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. We present a case of gastric LELC that tested negative for EBV. Case description: A 70-year-old patient with a gastric mass was diagnosed through routine endoscopy. The patient had no symptoms and a history of hypertension. The blood tests, including EBV infection, were normal. The patient underwent endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) and surgical dissection. Conclusion: Clinicians should be aware of the rare cases of gastric LELC and further investigation is needed to understand its etiology and pathogenesis.