Pancoast's tumour

Pancoast's tumour

Any tumour situated in the lower part of the neck which, because of its location, involves certain structures to cause a characteristic group of physical signs. These may include pain in and around the region caused by spread of the tumour to the lung covering (pleura) the ribs and the spine; weakness in the arm from damage to nerves in the armpit; hoarseness of the voice due to involvement of the nerves to the LARYNX; and HORNER'S SYNDROME from damage to the sympathetic chain of nerves in the neck. Pancoast's tumour is commonly an advanced lung cancer (bronchial carcinoma). (Henry Khunrath Pancoast, 1875–1939, American radiologist).