Chest wall invasion, in the context of lung pathology, refers to the extension of a primary lung tumor or metastatic disease directly into the surrounding chest wall structures. This critical finding indicates a more advanced stage of disease and can significantly impact treatment planning and prognosis. Ultrasound can play a role in assessing the extent of invasion, particularly for superficial lesions, by visualizing tumor proximity to ribs, intercostal muscles, and pleura.
Accurate identification of chest wall invasion is vital for surgical resectability and guiding radiotherapy. Ultrasound imaging can help differentiate between simple adherence and true invasion, providing crucial information for thoracic oncology. Early detection through medical imaging techniques like ultrasound is key for optimal management and improved patient outcomes in cases involving lung tumors with potential chest wall involvement.