Pancoast Syndrome (Apical Lung Tumor)
Description
A lung cancer that involves the top of the lung (apex) and invades the chest wall and surrounding structures including: lymphatics (small, thin vessels that carry lymph fluid through the body), nerves, nerve roots, vertebrae, and ribs. These cancers are rare comprising only 5% of all lung tumors but are malignant and almost always fatal.
Symptoms
Chest pain, shoulder pain, cough, weakness, Horner's syndrome (drooping eyelid, absence of sweating, sunken eyeball, unilateral small pupil).
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Imaging tests to determine the extent of disease include: X-ray, CT scan, Positron Emission Tomagraphy (PET) scan and/or MRI. The type of cancer is determined by performing a bronchoscopy and/or a mediastinoscopy, and a biopsy.
- CBC
- Chem 12
- X-Ray
- CT Scan
- MRI
Treatment
Treatment depends on the extent of disease but may include: surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation therapy. For more information contact the American Cancer Society: (800)227-2345
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