Retrospective evaluation of patients with apical lung tumor

Abstract

Aim: Pancoast's tumor constitutes 3-5 % of all cases of lung cancer. The patients describe severe pain in the shoulder-arm, chest, and scapula. In addition to the pain, sensory disturbances such as paresthesia and dysesthesia, and hyperpathia and motor deficits may be present. The aim of this study was to evaluate retrospectively the patients with apical lung cancer in our clinic with respect to tumor localization, pain, additional symptoms and treatment methods. Results: Over a 6 years period, 114 adult patients were evaluated. The male:female ratio was 104/10 and mean age was 57 years. Of specified pain sites the most commonly mentioned was the shoulder and arm (86), the scapula (16), the chest (6) and the other regions (6). The median survival from the onset of pain was 6 months, and 29 patients had Horner's syndrome. Conclusion: Type and course of the pain may change in patients with apical lung cancer. For this reason, close follow up, combined therapy and invasive treatment might be necessary.