Lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma of the renal pelvis

Lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma (LELC), best known to occur in the nasopharynx, can arise in a variety of sites, such as the salivary gland, thymus, lung, stomach, skin and uroepithelium. Primary LELC of the uroepithelium is very rare and there is only limited information in the published reports. We managed a case of a 75-year-old woman who presented with nausea and gross painless hematuria. She was treated with laparoscopic nephroureterectomy and was diagnosed with a T1N1M0 LELC of the renal pelvis. Unlike nasopharyngeal lymphoepithelioma, immunohistochemical analysis of this urinary LELC was negative for the Epstein-Barr virus. Herein we report on one more case of primary LELC of the renal pelvis and review of the published reports, particularly those concerning Epstein-Barr virus expressions. Recognition of this tumor and complete resection are essential for saving patients.