Metastatic Lung Cancer

Findings:

Multiple heterogeneous nodular marrow lesions due to metastatic disease are present. A superimposed poorly defined intramedullary enhancing mass is present within the upper thoracic cord associated with surrounding cord edema. A subtle pathologic fracture is seen at a lower thoracic level.

Differential Diagnosis/Discussion:

An expansile enhancing intramedullary mass has a differential diagnosis of ependymoma, astrocytoma, hemangioblastoma, and metastasis. Demyelinating process should not be considered in this case due to the degree of cord expansion and edema. In addition, the presence of multiple vertebral metastases indicates that intramedullary metastasis is likely.

BACK TO MAIN PAGE