Whole lung tomography in metastatic disease

Clin Radiol. 1976 Jan;27(1):53-6. doi: 10.1016/s0009-9260(76)80016-5.

Abstract

Because pulmonary metastases in patients with primary neoplasms have both therapeutic prognostic implications, a review was undertaken of 100 patients with primary neoplasms in whom whole lung tomography and chest roentgenography had been performed. Eight (20%) of 28 patients with solitary metastases on conventional films had more than one lesion on tomography. Due to the tomographic findings, therapy was altered in six of those eight. Two (3%) of 72 patients with normal chest roentgenograms had metastases visible on their tomograms. The data indicate the high value of whole lung tomography in determining therapy whenever a solitary metastasis is visible on conventional chest roentgenograms. The 3% pickup rate of metastases in patients with normal chest roentgenograms is less clear-cut but does suggest the contribution tomography can make in patients with potentially curable lesions.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lung Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Lung Neoplasms / therapy
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasm Metastasis
  • Tomography, X-Ray*