Multiple Cystic Cavitary Alveolar-Cell Carcinoma

Abstract

A case of alveolar-cell carcinoma in a 47-year-old woman, manifesting diffuse multiple cystic cavitary lesions in the lung, is presented and the pathophysiologic mechanism of cyst formation is discussed. Central necrosis within nodules, emphysematous changes due to check-valves of carcinomatous infiltrates at the terminal bronchioles, and circulatory disturbances are considered to be responsible for the cyst formation.