True about Pancoast tumour are all of the following except: March 2005
**Core Concept**
Pancoast tumors are a type of lung cancer that originates in the upper lobe of the lung and invades the surrounding structures, including the ribs, vertebral bodies, and brachial plexus. This unique location and behavior of the tumor are critical in understanding its clinical presentation and management.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Pancoast tumors are characterized by their apical location, which leads to the involvement of the sympathetic chain, brachial plexus, and subclavian artery. This results in a distinct set of clinical features, including Horner's syndrome, shoulder pain, and upper limb weakness. The tumor's proximity to the spinal cord and vertebral bodies also increases the risk of spinal cord compression and vertebral body destruction.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Pancoast tumors are typically associated with the apical location of the tumor, which is not specific to this type of lung cancer.
**Option B:** Pancoast tumors do not typically present with mediastinal lymphadenopathy, as they are usually located in the upper lobe of the lung and do not involve the mediastinum.
**Option C:** Pancoast tumors are not characterized by the presence of pleural effusion, as the tumor is usually located in the upper lobe of the lung and does not directly involve the pleural space.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Pancoast tumors are a classic example of a tumor type that requires a multidisciplinary approach, including radiation oncology, medical oncology, and thoracic surgery, due to its complex location and behavior.
**Correct Answer: B. Pancoast tumors are typically associated with the apical location of the tumor, which is not specific to this type of lung cancer.