Multiple primary pulmonary malignancy

The diagnosis of multiple primary pulmonary malignancy can be difficult; and the criteria for such tumours may arise simultaneously or consecutively, be unilateral or bilateral and have similar or different histology. Resection remains the treatment of choice and, despite the gloomy outlook, no patient should be assumed inoperable. To achieve early diagnosis of a consecutively occurring tumour, regular and prolonged follow up of every patient who has had a first tumour resected is recommended.