[Diagnosis and treatment for metastatic pulmonary tumor]

Metastatic tumors from variable organs are seen in pulmonary tissue because of its unique anatomical situation. In this article, current diagnosis and treatment for metastatic lung tumor are reviewed and discussed including recent topics. Control of metastatic lung tumor by chemotherapy and hormonal treatment has been improved. Furthermore, active applying of Video Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery induces a change of surgical indication for metastatic lung tumor. Metastatic tumors express oncogene and tumor suppressor gene as well as primary lung cancer. However, the relationship between oncogene/tumor suppressor gene and lung metastatic phenomenon is still unclear. Molecular biological study may indicate new treatment strategy against metastatic pulmonary tumor. Prospective controlled studies for each type of primary tumor are needed to evaluate the true efficacy of pulmonary metastectomy.