Lung Cancer & Sleep Apnoea Flashcards
On an x-ray, if there is a visible mass, where would you assume the mass is located?
Peripherally
What is the biggest cause of lung cancer?
Smoking
Name 6 other causes of lung cancer
- Radon gas
- Chemicals within workplace
- Wood stoves
- Genetics
- Radiation therapy
- People with COPD and pulmonary fibrosis
What are the two main groups of lung tumours?
- Small cell tumours
- Non-small cell tumours
which group of lung tumours is more common?
Non-small cell tumours
what are the three most common non-small cell tumours that arise in the lungs?
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Large cell carcinoma
- Adenocarcinoma
What are the 4 main signs and symptoms of lung tumours?
- Cough
- Haemoptysis (blood stained sputum)
- Pneumonia
- Metastasis
Name the 3 less common, but still significant symptoms/signs of lung tumours
- Dysphagia (swallowing difficulties)
- Superior vena cava obstruction
- Recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy
How does superior vena cava obstruction occur?
Because of compression from a tumour in the mediastinum which will prevent blood from returning to the right side of he heart. This leads to distension of the veins and swelling in the head and neck region
What characterises recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy?
Unexplained hoarseness
Describe a stage 1 lung tumour
Solitary lesion
describe a stage 2 lung tumour
Multiple lesions but only on one side of the thorax
describe a stage 3 lung tumour
Lesions on both sides of thorax
describe a stage 4 lung tumour
Metastatic lesions throughout the lung and also symptoms of oedema, fluid or pneumonia.
what stage will most patients with lung cancer be diagnosed?
Stage 3 or 4