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| Metastatic Carcinoma to the Lung | ||
| Etiology • Dependent on type | ||
| Pathogenesis • Tumor emboli enter veins and circulate directly into systemic circulation • Emboli lodge in small capillaries of pulmonary circulation after passing through the right heart • In the case of viscera draining via the portal system, metastases generally first occur in the liver and then access the systemic venous return • Neoplasms may also reach the lung via continguous spread • May also infiltrate pulmonary lymphatics and spread in perivascular and peribronchial distribution, | ||
| Epidemiology • Occurs in virtually any type of carcinoma • Most common types include most common neoplasms including breast and colon | ||
| General Gross Description • Usually multifocal with a greater density in the lower lung fields (better perfused) • Usually gray white but vary depending on the primary • Generally well circumscribed •Examples: | ||
| General Microscopic Description • Vary depending on the primary site •Examples: | ||
| Clinical Correlation • Most metastases are multiple and bilateral and thus are not amenable to surgical removal • Likewise, radiation to both lungs is not tolerated at doses that would control carcinoma • Response is dependent on neoplasms response to chemotherapy | ||
| References • Cotran RS, Kumar V, Robbins SL: Robbins Pathologic Basis of Disease. 5th edition. Philadelphia, W.B. Saunders, 1994, pp. 720-25. Please be patient during transfer. Medline will open in a new window. To return, close the Medline Window Metastatic Carcinoma to the Lung
| Synopsis by: Melinda Sanders M.D. (T28000M81406)[439]
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