Management of patients with metastatic carcinoma of unknown origin

ABSTRACT

The clinical course of 54 patients with metastatic cancer of unknown primary origin seen at NEMROCK in 1991 were reviewed. Their mean age was 50.5 +/- 11.5 years [range 24 - 62 years]. A higher male predominance was found. 51.9% of cases presented with bone metastasis. 18.5% presented with brain metastasis. A number of investigative procedures were carried out to locate the primary malignant site. The primary site was detected among 16% of patients. Abdominal CT seems a reasonable procedure in the diagnostic evaluation of occult primary carcinoma. Radiation therapy is a good palliative method for bony pain