Lymphangitis carcinomatosis
Presentation
Known oseophageal malignancy with palliative stenting. Increasing shortness of breath. Normal WCC.
Patient Data
Age: 75 years
Gender: Male
From the case:
Lymphangitis carcinomatosis
X-ray
Frontal
Distal esophageal stent. Bilateral diffuse increased reticular markings throughout both lungs. Tiny right sided pleural effusion.
From the case:
Lymphangitis carcinomatosis
Diagram
Drawing
Illustrative explanation by Dr F Gaillard.
Case Discussion
Lymphangitic carcinomatosis is the term given to tumor spread through the lymphatics of the lung. It is most commonly seen secondary to adenocarcinoma, as in this case with an esophageal primary. The appearances on chest x-ray are those of reticulonodular shadowing. CT is much more sensitive.