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. 1997 Mar;52(3):289–290. doi: 10.1136/thx.52.3.289

Occult lung cancer in patients with bullous emphysema

F Venuta, E A Rendina, E O Pescarmona, T De Giacomo, D Vizza, I Flaishman, C Ricci
PMCID: PMC1758506  PMID: 9093350

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The incidence of lung cancer is increased in patients with bullous emphysema. METHODS: A series of 95 patients undergoing excision of bullous lung tissue was reviewed to determine the incidence and long term outcome of occult carcinoma present in the resected material. RESULTS: Four patients (4.2%) had peripheral foci of large cell carcinoma in the resection specimen (three bullectomies and one lobectomy). CONCLUSIONS: Resected bullous lung tissue should be carefully examined for areas of bronchogenic carcinoma. The results of incidental complete excision are favourable. 






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Selected References

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