Lung cancer is a type of cancer which originates in the lungs . It occurs when there is an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the lung tissue, leading to the formation of tumors.
These tumors may interfere with the normal functioning of the lungs
And may spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or the lymphatic system, a process known as metastasis.
Types of Lung cancer
There are 2- Main types of lung cancer: non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) and small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC).
NSCLC is the most common type, which accounts for about 85% of all lung cancer cases.
It will include sub-types like adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and large cell carcinoma.
SCLC is a more aggressive form and tends to grow and spread more rapidly.
Causes of Lung cancer
It is often associated with smoking, as tobacco smoke contains carcinogens that can damage lung cells and increase the risk of developing cancer.
However, non-smokers can also develop lung cancer, and there are other risk factors
such as exposure to secondhand smoke, environmental pollutants (like radon gas and asbestos), a family history of lung cancer, and certain genetic mutations.
Symptoms of Lung cancer
Symptoms can vary and may include persistent cough, chest pain, difficulty breathing, coughing up blood, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.
Because these symptoms can resemble other lung conditions, like infections.
It’s important to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis if you’re experiencing persistent or concerning symptoms.
lung cancer diagnosis
The diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, imaging tests, and sometimes biopsy.
overview of the diagnostic process includes :
Medical History and Physical Examination:
Your doctor will asking you about your brief medical history
including any symptoms you may be experiencing, your smoking history, exposure to environmental risk factors, and any relevant family history of cancer.
They will also perform a physical examination to assess your overall health and any signs of lung-related issues.
Imaging Tests:
Various imaging tests can help visualize the lungs and detect any abnormalities. Common imaging methods used for diagnosis include:
- X-rays:
A simple and quick test that can show abnormal masses or nodules in the lungs.
- Computed Tomography (CT) Scan:
Provides detailed cross-sectional images of the lungs, helping to identify the size, shape, and location of tumors.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):
May be used in specific cases to get detailed images of the lungs and surrounding tissues.
- Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan:
This imaging technique can help determine if cancer has spread to other parts of the body by highlighting areas with increased metabolic activity.
Biopsy:
If suspicious findings are detect on imaging tests, a biopsy is usually perform to confirm the presence of cancer and determine its type.
There are several ways to obtain tissue samples for biopsy:
- Bronchoscopy:
A thin, flexible tube (bronchoscope) is insert through the nose or mouth to view the airways and collect small tissue samples.
- Needle Aspiration:
A fine needle is guide into the lung tumor using imaging guidance to extract tissue samples for examination.
- Surgical Biopsy:
In some cases, a small surgical procedure is perform to remove a portion of the tumor or a lymph node for examination.
Pathology:
The tissue samples obtained from a biopsy are sent to a pathologist, who examines them under a microscope to determine .
Staging:
If lung cancer is confirm, staging is perform to determine the extent of the cancer’s spread. Staging helps guide treatment decisions.
It involves assessing the size of the tumor, its location, whether it has spread to nearby lymph nodes, and whether it has metastasized to distant parts of the body.
Molecular Testing:
For certain types of lung cancer, especially non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), molecular testing is done to identify specific genetic mutations or biomarkers that can guide target therapies.
It is important to work closely with a medical team specialized in cancer diagnosis and treatment.
The diagnostic process can be complex, but accurate and thorough testing is essential for developing an effective treatment plan tailored to your specific condition.
lung cancer treatment
The treatment depends on various factors, including the type of lung cancer, its stage, the patient’s overall health and any specific genetic mutations present.
Treatment options for lung cancer can include:
Surgery:
Surgical removal of the tumor or a portion of the lung is often consider for early-stage lung cancer. There are different surgical procedures, such as:
- Lobectomy: The Removal of the entire lobe of the lung which contains the tumor.
- Pneumonectomy: Removal of the entire lung.
- Wedge Resection: Removal of a small, wedge-shaped piece of the lung which contains the tumor.
Radiation Therapy:
In this therapy high-energy rays are use to target and kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be use as the primary treatment, alongside surgery, or to relieve symptoms in advanced cases.
Chemotherapy:
It involves using drugs which kill or slow the growth of cancer cells.
It is often use in advance lung cancer or when surgery is not possible.
Chemotherapy may be given alone or in combination with other treatments.
Targeted Therapy:
Targeted therapies are medications that specifically target certain genetic mutations or proteins found in cancer cells.
These treatments are often used for non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) with specific mutations, such as EGFR or ALK mutations.
Immunotherapy:
Immunotherapy which helps the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.
Immune checkpoint inhibitors are a type of immunotherapy used for lung cancer, and they can be effective in some cases, especially in advanced disease.
Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) Treatment:
SCLC is often treated with chemotherapy and radiation therapy due to its aggressive nature.
Sometimes, prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) is considered to prevent the spread of cancer to the brain.
Palliative Care:
In advanced cases, when a cure is not possible, palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms, improving quality of life, and providing emotional support.
Clinical Trials:
Clinical trials are research studies that test new treatments or treatment combinations to evaluate their effectiveness and safety.
Participating in a clinical trial can provide access to innovative therapies.
Treatment plans are personalize which is base on the patient’s unique circumstances, and multidisciplinary teams.
Like oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists and other specialists which include onco physiotherapist / Lymphedema therapist , ocuupational therapist.
collaborate to design the most effective approach.
It is important for patients to have open discussions with their healthcare team about treatment options, potential side effects, and the expected outcomes.
The goal of treatment can vary from attempting to cure the cancer to managing symptoms and improving quality of life.