Description An abnormal growth ...
Description
An abnormal growth of cells in the lung. The cancer can arise primarily from lung cells or by traveling from a distant tumor (metastasis). It occurs in adults of both sexes, usually between ages 40 and 70. Lung cancer causes more deaths than any other form of cancer. The incidence is steady or falling in recent years in direct relation to the reduction in cigarette smoking. The cancer cells destroy lung tissue and damage the surrounding organs. There are two main types of lung cancer: small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer.
Symptoms
Persistent cough, coughing up blood, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, fatigue. Initially, there may be no symptoms.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Imaging tests or a bronchoscopy may be performed to identify the cancer. The cancer type is identified by performing a biopsy, or by evaluating the sputum for cancer cells.
Other Specific Tests: Sputum cytology, Positron Emission Tomagraphy (PET) scan, Bronchoscopy
Specialists:
Pulmonology, Thoracic Surgery, Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology), Pediatric Pulmonology, Pediatric Hematology and Oncology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Imaging tests or a bronchoscopy may be performed to identify the cancer. The cancer type is identified by performing a biopsy, or by evaluating the sputum for cancer cells.
Other Specific Tests: Sputum cytology, Positron Emission Tomagraphy (PET) scan, Bronchoscopy
Specialists:
Pulmonology, Thoracic Surgery, Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology), Pediatric Pulmonology, Pediatric Hematology and Oncology
Treatment
Treatment depends on the specific type of lung cancer, and on the extent of the disease. Each type is treated differently. Chemotherapy, radiation, and/or surgery may be needed.