Superior sulcus tumor disguised as cervical radiculopathy with metastasis to brachial plexus

Abstract

A 74-year-old man presented to an orthopedic spine surgeon with signs and symptoms consistent with cervical radiculopathy. Investigation revealed metastasis of a Pancoast tumor to the patient’s brachial plexus. A year after initial diagnosis, the patient achieved full neurological function of his left arm. Pancoast tumors are rare in the orthopedic population. Thorough physical examination, imaging, and nerve conduction studies ultimately led to the patient’s diagnosis.

Keywords:

• Brachial plexus
• Pancoast tumor
• radiculopathy
• spine