Lung Cancer Flashcards
Non-small cell lung cancer
NSCLC represents approximately 80% to 85% of lung malignancies. The primary subtypes of NSCLC are adenocarcinoma (40%) and squamous cell carcinoma (25% to 30%). Adenocarcinoma more strongly associated with smoking.
Small-cell lung cancer
10-15% of lung cancers, strongly associated with smoking
Common cause of lung cancer in non-smokers
epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene mutations and the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) translocations
Lung Cancer Symptoms
Many asymptomatic Cough (75%) Weight Loss Dyspnea Chest Pain Hemoptysis
Changes in chronic cough is a big red flag
Lung Cancer Symptoms
Many asymptomatic Cough (75%) Weight Loss Dyspnea Chest Pain Hemoptysis
Changes in chronic cough is a big red flag
Lung Cancer Spread
Liver, bone, adrenal gland, brain are more common metastasis sites
Symptom Progression
SCLC progresses rapidly (8-12 weeks) while NSCLC is over many months
Signs of metastatic disease
palpable lymphadenopathy greater than 1 cm, bone tenderness, hepatomegaly, focal neurologic findings, or a soft tissue mass. Lung cancer is also a common cause of superior vena cava syndrome
Superior Vena Cava Syndrome
Facial edema, dilated neck veins, venous chest pattern
Common cause is lung cancer
Lung Cancer screening
Low dose CT for people 55-80 who have a 30-pack year smoking history and still smoke or quit less than 15 years ago
Diagnostic studies for lung cancer
Chest x-ray
Contrast CT of thorax
PET
MRI or CT of head
Lung cancer staging
SCLC is either limited or extensive
NSCLC is Stages 1-4: 1 and 2 localized, 3 is lymph spread, 4 is distant spread
Complications of Lung CA
Back pain and neuro deficits (Cauda Equina or spinal compresson) Dyspnea with facial puffiness Effusions Neuro effects in CNS DVT Immune Compromise if being treated
