Sarcomatoid carcinoma of the lung physical examination

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Trusha Tank, M.D.[2]

Physical examination findings of sarcomatoid carcinoma of the lung will depend on the location of the tumor. Sarcomatoid carcinoma of the lung with central location may cause crackling sounds, focal wheezing, voice hoarseness, and tachypnea. Peripheral location can present with physical findings suggestive of pleurisy. Common physical examination of patients with sarcomatoid carcinoma of the lung include crackling or bubbling noises and decreased or absent breath sounds.

The following physical examination findings may be present among patients with non-small cell lung cancer:^[1][2]

• Physical examination findings of sarcomatoid carcinoma of the lung can be completely normal during the early stage of malignancy.
• Patient may present with following findings in later stage of malignancy:

• Well-appearing
• Older age in relation to chronological age
• Lethargic
• Confused

• Low-grade fever
• Decreased oxygen saturation at room air
• Tachypnea
• Tachycardia

• Lymphadenopathy

• Pallor
• Acanthosis nigricans

• Slurred speech
• Confusion

Auscultation

• Present pleural friction rub
• Present egophony
• Crackling or bubbling noises
• Present whispered pectoriloquy
• Decreased/absent breath sounds

Percussion

• Hyporesonance
• Dull percussion
• Tactile fremitus
• Reduced chest expansion

• Hepatomegaly

• Back examination of patients with sarcomatoid carcinoma of the lung is usually normal.

• Genitourinary examination of patients with sarcomatoid carcinoma of the lung is usually normal.

• Palpable soft-tissue mass

• Clubbing of fingers
• Swelling of hands and feet
• Weakness

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