MBBS | DNB(General Surgery, Gold Medalist) | DNB(Thoracic Surgery, Gold Medalist)
Consultant Thoracic & Lungs Transplant Surgeon | Medanta – The Medicity Gurugram

INSTITUTE OF CHEST SURGERY LOGO

Dr Mohan Venkatesh Pulle

MBBS | DNB(General Surgery, Gold Medalist) | DNB(Thoracic Surgery, Gold Medalist)
Consultant Thoracic & Lungs Transplant Surgeon | Medanta – The Medicity Gurugram

INSTITUTE OF CHEST SURGERY LOGO

Lung Cancer

Treatment

Lung Cancer

lung cancer

Lung cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the lungs, which are essential organs responsible for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide during respiration. It is one of the most prevalent and deadly forms of cancer worldwide, affecting both men and women. Lung cancer develops when normal lung cells undergo abnormal changes, leading to uncontrolled growth and the formation of tumors.

There are two main types of lung cancer: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC), which are further categorized based on their specific cell characteristics. NSCLC accounts for about 80% to 85% of all lung cancers, while SCLC makes up approximately 10% to 15%.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pneumothorax is a medical condition characterized by the presence of air in the pleural space, the area between the lung and the chest wall. This can lead to lung collapse and difficulty breathing.

Symptoms of pneumothorax include sudden sharp chest pain, shortness of breath, dry cough, and in some cases, shoulder or back pain.

Yes, there are several types, including Spontaneous (both primary and secondary), Traumatic, Tension, and Iatrogenic. Each type has distinct causes and characteristics.

Diagnosis often involves a physical examination, medical history review, and imaging studies like chest X-rays or CT scans. The type and severity of pneumothorax guide the diagnostic approach.

Treatment depends on the severity. Mild cases may resolve on their own, while more severe cases may require intervention. Options include observation, needle aspiration, chest tube insertion, or surgery to remove trapped air and stabilize the lung.

What is a Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the lungs, which are essential organs responsible for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide during respiration. It is one of the most prevalent and deadly forms of cancer worldwide, affecting both men and women. Lung cancer develops when normal lung cells undergo abnormal changes, leading to uncontrolled growth and the formation of tumors.

There are two main types of lung cancer: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC), which are further categorized based on their specific cell characteristics. NSCLC accounts for about 80% to 85% of all lung cancers, while SCLC makes up approximately 10% to 15%.

1.Causes and Risk Factors

Cigarette smoking is the most significant risk factor for developing lung cancer. Approximately 85% of lung cancer cases are directly linked to smoking tobacco, including cigarettes, cigars, and pipes. However, non-smokers can also develop lung cancer, and other risk factors include exposure to secondhand smoke, environmental pollutants (like asbestos, radon, and certain chemicals), family history of lung cancer, and previous radiation therapy to the chest.

2. Symptoms

Lung cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages, which can make early detection challenging. As the disease progresses, common symptoms include persistent coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, hoarseness, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, coughing up blood (hemoptysis), and recurrent respiratory infections like pneumonia or bronchitis.

3. Diagnosis

If lung cancer is suspected, the doctor will conduct a thorough evaluation, including a review of the patient’s medical history, risk factors, and symptoms. Diagnostic tests typically include imaging studies like chest X-rays, CT scans, or MRI to identify abnormal growths in the lungs. A biopsy is then performed to collect a tissue sample for examination under a microscope to determine the cancer type and stage.

4. Staging

Staging is a crucial step in determining the extent and severity of the cancer. It helps guide treatment decisions and assess the prognosis. The most common staging system for lung cancer is the TNM system, which evaluates the tumor size and extent (T), lymph node involvement (N), and metastasis (M).

5. Treatment

The treatment approach for lung cancer depends on the cancer type, stage, and the patient’s overall health. The main treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. For early-stage NSCLC, surgical removal of the tumor may be curative. In advanced cases, a combination of treatments is often used to improve outcomes and manage symptoms.

6. Prognosis

Lung cancer prognosis varies widely based on the stage at diagnosis and the patient’s response to treatment. Unfortunately, lung cancer is often diagnosed at advanced stages, leading to a lower overall survival rate compared to some other cancers. However, advances in research and treatment have led to improved outcomes for certain cases, particularly when diagnosed early

7. Prevention

The best way to prevent lung cancer is to avoid tobacco smoke, both active and passive. For smokers, quitting smoking significantly reduces the risk of developing lung cancer. Reducing exposure to environmental pollutants and known carcinogens is also essential in prevention.

8. Screening and Early Detection

Lung cancer screening is recommended for individuals at high risk, particularly current or former heavy smokers. Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans are used for screening, and early detection can lead to more effective treatment and improved survival rates.

9. Support and Coping

A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging for both patients and their loved ones. Seeking support from friends, family, or support groups can help patients cope with the emotional and practical aspects of the disease. Additionally, palliative care can provide symptom management and improve the quality of life for patients with advanced lung cancer.

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