Pancoast tumor diagnostic study of choice
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Mazia Fatima, MBBS [2]
Overview
CT scan is the gold standard test for the diagnosis of Pancoast tumor. MRI imaging should be performed for evaluation of chest wall invasion, examination of vascular structures and brachial plexus involvement, evaluation of resectability of the tumor.
Diagnostic Study of Choice
CT scan
- CT scan is the gold standard test for the diagnosis of Pancoast tumor.
- The following result of CT scan is confirmatory of Pancoast tumor:[1]
- Opacity at the apex of the lung or in the superior sulcus area.
- Spread of the tumor can result in rib invasion that is observed as bone destruction of posterior ribs.
- Vertebral body infiltration
- Enlargement of the mediastinum.
- Invasion of brachial plexus
- Invasion of chest wall and/or mediastinum
- Extension of the tumor into vena cava, trachea, and esophagus.
- Subclavian vessel involvement is assessed by contrast CT scanning.
MRI
- MRI imaging should be performed for:
- Evaluation of chest wall invasion
- Examination of vascular structures and brachial plexus involvement
- Evaluation of resectability of the tumor.
Diagnostic Criteria
- Pancoast tumor may be diagnosed at any time if the following criteria are met:
- Tumor localized to the superior sulcus of the lung
References
- ↑ Purandare, NilenduC; Rangarajan, Venkatesh (2015). “Imaging of lung cancer: Implications on staging and management”. Indian Journal of Radiology and Imaging. 25 (2): 109. doi:10.4103/0971-3026.155831. ISSN 0971-3026.
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