Pulmonary and pleural manifestations of extrathoracic malignancies.

Abstract

Metastatic spread of nonpulmonary malignancies to the lung is a common clinical problem. However, the evaluation and treatment of metastatic lung disease may be confusing. This article considers both pulmonary and pleural metastases. The basic biology of the metastatic process is discussed, together with the pathologic, clinical, radiologic, diagnostic, and therapeutic features of pulmonary metastases. Metastatic disease to the pleura is reviewed in detail, including etiology and incidence, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment.