Inflammatory sternal metastasis heralding lung cancer: two cases.

Bone pain due to bone metastases is a frequent presenting symptom of lung cancer. However, sternal metastases are unusual. We report two patients with inflammatory sternal metastases mimicking osteitis and indicating lung cancer. Chest computed tomography scan showed lytic lesion of the sternal manubrium invading anterior soft tissue. Diagnosis relied on histological examination of sternal biopsy and negative bacteriologic cultures. Local radiotherapy resulted in resolution of local signs.