An unexpected supraclavicular swelling
2007

Rare Case of Clavicular Metastasis from Colorectal Cancer

Sample size: 1 publication Evidence: low

Author Information

Author(s): Patel Nishith NB, Shah Parin R, Wilson Eliie, Haray Puthcode N

Primary Institution: Department of General Surgery, Prince Charles Hospital, Merthyr Tydfil, UK

Conclusion

This case report highlights the rare occurrence of a colorectal metastasis to the clavicle and the limitations of isotope bone scanning in detecting such metastases.

Supporting Evidence

  • Colorectal cancer is the third commonest cause of cancer death in the UK.
  • Metastasis to the clavicle is extremely rare.
  • Isotope bone scans may not detect certain metastases, necessitating alternative diagnostic methods.

Takeaway

Sometimes, cancer from the colon can spread to unusual places like the collarbone, and doctors need to be careful when using certain scans to find it.

Methodology

The case involved imaging, cytology, and histological examination of the lesion and resected specimen.

Limitations

The rarity of skeletal metastases from colorectal cancer makes radiological investigations only undertaken on clinical suspicion.

Participant Demographics

A 68-year-old man with adenocarcinoma of the descending colon.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1477-7819-5-90

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