Lung Cancer Flashcards
Lung cancer: What is small cell?
Few cases, very aggressive, metastasis often on presentation, paraneoplastic
What are some examples of small cell?
- SIADH (Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone Secretion)
- Cushings
Examples of non-small cell lung cancer?
- Adenocarcinoma
- Squamos Cell Carcinoma
- Large Cell Carcinoma
Most cases (85%) is what type of cancer?
Non-small cell
Characteristics of non-small cell lung carcinomas?
- Typically grouped together
- Responsible for most instances of lung cancer
- All respond similarly to treatments
What happens to the epithelial cells of the bronchi and bronchioles?
They mutate and over time become neoplastic
What are some risk factors of lung cancer?
- Age >50
- Genetics
- Exposure to Radon, asbestos
- Smoking
- non-smokers have decreased incidence when compared to those who once smoked but stopped
- Cessation does still lower the risk
When describing a patient’s history of tobacco use we use a number called what?
Pack years
What does pack years mean?
The number of years the patient has been smoking multiplied by the number of packs a day they smoke(d) on average
What are the clinical manifestations of lung cancer?
- Respiratory (coughing, wheezing)
- Hemoptysis
- Chest pain
- Paraneoplastic symptoms
- Systemic effects after metastasis (dysphagia, mediastinal pain)
What diagnostic tests can be performed to diagnose lung cancer?
Chest X-Ray Bronchoscopy CT Scan Biopsy Pulmonary function and ABGs Rule out TB Sputum specimen (if negative, doesn't necessarily rule out cancer)
What medical treatments are available for lung cancer?
Surgery (resection, lobectomy, wedge/sleeve resection)
Pharmacological (bronchodilators, analegesics, chemo)
Radiation (EBR with chemo, brachytherapy)
What is the goal of surgery concerning lung cancer?
To leave as much healthy tissue as possible
Patients with lung cancer are often the primary recipients of what?
Lung transplants
How is brachytherapy usually delivered?
Pellets
