Pancoast (Superior sulcus) tumors

Primary carcinomas arising in the apex of the lung (Pancoast tumors) have attracted attention because of the characteristic syndrome that is produced by local extension into the chest wall and the brachial plexus, This article reviews the history of the treatment of this disease, the natural history of untreated patients, and the diagnosis of Pancoast tumors, The published data on results, prognostic factors, and technical aspects of treatment with combined irradiation and operation are examined, as well as those pertaining to treatment with irradiation alone. (C) 1997 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.