Recurrent squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix with pulmonary lymphangitic metastasis

A case report and review of the world literature are presented to examine all the reported cases of cervical carcinoma manifesting as pulmonary lymphangitic carcinomatosis in order to better understand this rare condition. The clinical and pathologic features of this disease process are reviewed, as are potential treatment options. We present the first reported case of an immunocompromised patient with cervical carcinoma and pulmonary lymphangitic metastasis with a prospective diagnosis made by transbronchial biopsy. Given that this condition carries a uniformly fatal prognosis, unwanted therapy may result from a missed diagnosis. A prospective pathologic diagnosis by transbronchial biopsy may guide appropriate therapy in these patients.