GI & Thoracic Oncology
Overview
Types of Lung Cancer
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): NSCLC encompasses several types of lung cancers that share similar characteristics. These include squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. Compared to small cell lung cancer, NSCLC is less responsive to chemotherapy.
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC): SCLC, more prevalent in both males and females, tends to spread and grow at a faster rate than NSCLC. While it is less likely to be cured with treatment, SCLC shows a higher likelihood of responding to chemotherapy.
Understanding the distinctions between these two types of lung cancer is crucial for devising effective treatment strategies and improving patient outcomes.
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
- Chest pain that gets worse when you take a deep breath, laugh, or cough
- Cough that doesn't go away
- Coughing up blood, in a very small amount or phlegm
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Bone pain
- Headache
- Weight loss without any reason
Diagnosis of Lung Cancer
If a physician suspects lung cancer in a patient, they may recommend a screening procedure comprising imaging tests (such as X-ray, CT scan, and PET scans), sputum cytology, and obtaining a tissue sample (biopsy).
Imaging tests, including X-ray and CT scan, can detect abnormalities like masses or lesions in the lungs. CT scans are particularly adept at revealing smaller lesions that might not be visible on X-rays, providing more detailed information.
Sputum cytology involves microscopic examination of phlegm coughed up by the patient to detect the presence of lung cancer cells.
In a biopsy, a sample of abnormal cells is extracted for examination. Various biopsy methods include:
- Bronchoscopy, where a lighted tube is inserted through the mouth into the lungs to examine abnormal areas.
- Mediastinoscopy, involving an incision at the base of the neck to access lymph nodes behind the breastbone for tissue sampling.
- Needle biopsy, wherein a needle is guided by X-ray or CT images through the chest wall into the lung tissue to collect suspicious cells.
These diagnostic procedures are essential for confirming the presence of lung cancer and guiding further treatment decisions.
FAQs
Cure rates for small, early-stage lung cancer can range from 80% to 90%. However, as the tumour progresses and involves lymph nodes or other parts of the body, the chances of cure significantly decrease.
The common types of thoracic cancers include lung cancer, esophageal cancer, and thymic tumours.
Thoracic cancer treatment can affect a patient's ability to breathe, although the specific impact depends on the site of the cancer and the individual patient's circumstances.
Long-term effects of thoracic cancer treatment may include lung damage, heart damage, and an increased risk of secondary cancers.
The survival rate for thoracic cancer depends on the type and stage of cancer. Early detection can significantly improve the chances of survival.
