LUNG CANCER
Unfortunately, sometimes the clinical symptoms or incidental findings on X-rays lead to a consideration of lung cancer. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide in both men and women. For each patient suspected of lung cancer, the goal becomes a timely diagnosis and staging of the extent of the disease and then appropriate therapy.
HOW IS LUNG CANCER DIAGNOSED?
In the United States the vast majority of people who are seen for primary lung cancer have a history of smoking cigarettes. The lungs are also a site of metastatic cancer for some non-related cancers. No single algorithm sufficiently addresses the complexity of establishing the diagnosis with consideration of the patient’s other medical issues. A comprehensive medical history and physical exam, in addition to radiographic evaluation and some form of biopsy procedure will be required to diagnose and determine the type of cancer being evaluated.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF LUNG CANCER?
When this evaluation is not prompted by an incidental finding, patients may present with:
- Cough 50-75%
- Hemoptysis (Blood in sputum 25-50%)
- Dyspnea (breathlessness with activity 25%0
- Chest pain 20%
WHAT IS THE TREATMENT FOR LUNG CANCER?
Once the diagnosis is established the optimal goal is to completely remove the cancer from the patient. This is a complex process, however, influenced by the type of lung cancer, the extent of the lung cancer in the chest or spread to other sites, the patient’s other medical conditions, and the risks related to the therapy itself are all factors that must be considered before decisions of treatment can be made. If your symptoms suggest Lung Cancer discuss it with your physician and make an appointment at The Sleep Lab by calling the office or clicking the online booking feature today.
