LYMPHANGITIC CARCINOMATOSIS OF THE LUNGS; CASE REPORT WITH AUTOPSY FINDINGS

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Abstract
An odd but not uncommon form of pulmonary metastasis arising in a primary carcinoma of the stomach is reported and discussed. The lymphatic channels of the lungs are extensively invaded and distended by neoplastic cells so that they are well delineated and can easily be noted grossly. This disease occurs more frequently in younger individuals, under 40 yrs. of age, and while the primary lesion is usually in the stomach the gastric symptoms are often inconspicuous. The most prominent signs and symptoms noted are the result of the secondary metastatic foci. When the lung is affected there may be cyanosis, dyspnea, hemoptysis and right ventricular hypertrophy due to pulmonary circulation blockage by neoplastic cells and intimal hyperplasia. In other instances the bone-marrow may show extensive meta-stases resulting in severe anemia, leucopenia and even decrease in thrombocytes. In these cases extramedullary hematopoiesis in the liver and spleen can often be demonstrated.