Giant Malignant Solitary Fibrous Tumor of the Pleura With Hypoglycemia: A Case Report

INTRODUCTION: The occurrence of giant malignant solitary fibrous tumor of the pleura with severe hypoglycemia as the initial symptom is exceedingly rare. This type of tumor requires extensive surgical resection, and the postoperative mortality rate is high. This article documents the nursing experience in such a case. CLINICAL FINDINGS: A 68-year-old man was admitted to the hospital because of recurrent episodes of severe hypoglycemia. Examination revealed a giant malignant solitary fibrous tumor measuring 16.5 × 12.6 × 18.1 cm in the thoracic cavity. It was suspected that the patient's hypoglycemia resulted from the tumor's secretion of insulin-like growth factor. DIAGNOSIS: Postoperative pathologic examination confirmed the diagnosis of a malignant solitary fibrous tumor originating in the pleura. INTERVENTIONS: The patient underwent resection of a right thoracic mass and right pneumonectomy. The interprofessional team-consisting of the thoracic surgeon, an endocrinologist, a respiratory care nurse, a thrombosis specialist nurse, a nutrition nurse, and a critical care nurse-worked together to provide therapy and nursing care. OUTCOMES: The patient had an uneventful postoperative recovery in the hospital and was discharged on postoperative day 6. He was followed up for 6 months and continued to experience an excellent recovery. CONCLUSION: Interprofessional collaboration can improve postoperative recovery in cases of giant solitary fibrous tumor of the pleura, preventing potential complications.