Description Large cell lung cancer is the growth of abnormal cells in the lung. T...
Description
Large cell lung cancer is the growth of abnormal cells in the lung. These abnormal cells increase in number and produce a tumor. Large cell lung cancers tend to grow in the central part of the lung and can spread rapidly. Current or previous smokers are at greatest risk for development of this type of cancer.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include a persistent cough, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, fatigue, weight loss or loss of appetite.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A complete history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis is often made by imaging tests such as a chest x-ray or CT scan. A tissue biopsy is usually required to confirm the diagnosis.
Tests:
CT Scan, Positron emission tomography (PET) scan, Chest X-ray
Other Specific Tests: tissue biopsy, sputum cytology
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Pulmonology, Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology)
Workup:
A complete history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis is often made by imaging tests such as a chest x-ray or CT scan. A tissue biopsy is usually required to confirm the diagnosis.
Tests:
CT Scan, Positron emission tomography (PET) scan, Chest X-ray
Other Specific Tests: tissue biopsy, sputum cytology
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Pulmonology, Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology)
Treatment
Treatment is determined by the size and location of the cancer. A combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be used.