title: Lung cancer metastatic to the masticator space.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Distant metastasis from lung cancer occurs most frequently to the brain, bone, adrenal gland, liver, lymph nodes, and spinal cord. However, masticator space metastasis is rarely found among lung cancer patients.
  
  
  METHODS
  We report a case of large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the lung with metastasis to the masticator space diagnosed by imaging and histopathological examinations.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The present case highlights the fact that large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the lung can result in an uncommon isolated masticator space metastasis. Clinicians should carefully evaluate cancer patients who report a painful sensation in the cheek. Thorough dental and physical examination, and imaging studies could provide early diagnosis and treatment.
authors.affiliation: Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan.
authors.forename: Te-Yu
authors.initials: TY
authors.lastname: Lin
authors.forename: Yen-Yi
authors.initials: YY
authors.lastname: Chou
authors.forename: Fong-Ching
authors.initials: FC
authors.lastname: Hsiao
authors.forename: Yung-Chih
authors.initials: YC
authors.lastname: Wang
authors.forename: Ping-Ying
authors.initials: PY
authors.lastname: Chang
authors.forename: Nai-Shun
authors.initials: NS
authors.lastname: Yao
mesh_terms: D018278:Carcinoma, Neuroendocrine / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000556:secondary*; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis*; D006801:Humans; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000556:secondary*; D008297:Male; D008410:Masticatory Muscles / Q000473:pathology; D008875:Middle Aged