CT and histopathological features of atypical lung metastases

DONG Qiang; QI Yuangang; LIU Kai

Abstract：Objective To analyze the CT features and histopathological background of atypical lung metastases so as to im-prove the ability of differential diagnosis.Methods Eighteen cases of atypical lung metastases confirmed by pathology or follow-up were collected,and the CT characteristics and histopathological background were analyzed.Results There were 3 cases of pure ground glass nodular metastasis(from adenoid cystic carcinoma of lacrimal gland,parotid gland,and orbital gland respec-tively).Multiple vascular-like enhanced nodular metastases were found in 1 case(from thyroid follicular carcinoma),thickening of fine arteries in 2 cases and sub-pleural shadows connected with thickening of pulmonary arteries in 8 cases(esophageal squa-mous carcinoma in 4 cases,lung squamous carcinoma in 2 cases,lung large cell carcinoma in 4 cases),and lung,mediastinal,or pleural complete calcification in 4 cases(osteosarcoma in 3 cases,chondrosarcoma in 1 case).Conclusion A detailed knowledge of the atypical radiologic features of a pulmonary metastasis with a good understanding of the histopathologic back-ground is essential for correct diagnosis.