Squamous cell metastases to the gastric cardia

Three patients with squamous cell carcinoma metastasized to the gastric cardia (1 from the esophagus, 1 from the hypopharynx, and 1 of unknown origin) are described. Two patients presented after apparent successful treatment of the primary malignancy. In all 3 cases the lesion appeared as a large solitary submucosal mass in the region of the gastric cardia. Squamous metastases should be considered in the radiographic differential diagnosis of a large submucosal gastric mass. Metastasis to the proximal stomach from carcinoma of the esophagus may be more common than suspected. Contrast evaluation of this area may be indicated in both the initial evaluation and the routine follow-up in these patients.