Human Anatomy

Pathological Findings in the Dissection Lab

Lung Tumor

Shown below is the lung from a cadaver with a diagnosis of lung cancer and pneumonia. The large hard, white areas are apparently the tumor. However, clotted mucus resulting from pneumonia presents a similar appearance and cannot be definitively ruled out in the absence of histological examination.

Below is section through the lower lobe of the same lung as above. This part of the lung was unaffected by the tumor and displays lung tissue normal in appearance. The tissue is soft and spongy without any of the masses seen elsewhere in the lung.