Metastatic carcinoma of the jaws: report of a case

Primary malignant tumors of the mouth and jaws usually do not present a diagnostic challenge to oral surgeons or otolaryngologists. However, recognition of metastatic tumors in the mouth and jaws is much more difficult. A case is presented of metastatic carcinoma from the lung to the soft tissue of the oral cavity. Histopathology of the lesions in the lung and oral cavity as well as the chest x-ray and the Panorex x-ray are presented. The patient refused palliative treatment, became malnourished, and died. A review of the pertinent literature is also presented.