Inflammatory sternal metastasis heralding lung cancer: two cases

Abstract

Bone pain due to bone metastases is a frequent presenting symptom of lung cancer. However, sternal metastases are unusual. We report two patients with inflammatory sternal metastases mimicking osteitis and indicating lung cancer. Chest computed tomography scan showed lytic lesion of the sternal manubrium invading anterior soft tissue. Diagnosis relied on histological examination of sternal biopsy and negative bacteriologic cultures. Local radiotherapy resulted in resolution of local signs.

Case Report: A Rare Case of Sternal Erosion Due to Bronchogenic Carcinoma

“…(7, 9). However, it is also rarely reported in association with lung cancer (7, 10). Most of the sternal involvements are due to loco-regional extension of the adjacent tumour like breast cancer (11).…”

Inflammatory Metastatic Carcinoma of Sternum Mimicking Sternal Osteomyelitis with Gas Gangrene

“…Anterior chest wall pain and swelling associated with inflammatory symptoms may be related to the inflammatory process such as infections and arthritis (1). Occasionally, an underlying pathologic process, such as malignancy, can be missed if the symptoms clearly implicate an infection.…”