Site of Lung Cancer

Right-sided primary bronchogenic carcinomas are the predominant cause of SVC syndrome. The carcinoma most commonly arises in the right upper lobe of the lung and extends directly to the SVC and adjacent lymph nodes. The following table is a summary of various studies that report the most common anatomic site of the tumor:

Site Szur (107) Salsali (106) Salsali (72)
    1965 1968
Right Lung 79% 78% 84%
RUL Bronchus 41% 58% 66%

References:

  1. Szur, et al. BMJ 1273, Dec 1956
  2. Salsali, et al. Surg Gyn Obs 783, Oct 1965
  3. Salsali, et al. Ann Thor Surg 6:437, Nov 1968

The anatomic site and lymphatic drainage of the lymph nodes surrounding the SVC explain the preponderance of obstructions occurring in lesions or the right bronchial origin.