Metastatic pleomorphic carcinoma of lung presenting as abdominal pain

Pleomorphic carcinoma of lung is a rare subtype that has a propensity to metastasize to the small bowel. This rarely encountered tumor may present a diagnostic challenge to pathologists and result in delay that could impact clinical decisions. Lung cancer can metastasize to any organ in the body; however, clinical manifestations of metastasis to the small bowel are a relatively rare event. Because they are so rare, small-bowel metastases are usually seen only at autopsy. Clinical presentation of small-bowel metastasis of lung cancer may represent a terminal event if not recognized and surgically resolved. Prompt surgical intervention may significantly extend the life of the patient.