Lung Cancers Flashcards
What are the four main subtypes of lung cancer?
Small cell lung cancer
Non-small lung cancer - adenocarcinoma, squamous cell and large cell
Describe the characteristics of small cell lung cancer
Arises from neuroendocrine cells and usually occurs centrally
Is associated with paraneoplastic syndromes
Poor prognosis due to early metastases
Generally not suitable for surgery or immunotherapy
Describe the characteristics of adenocarcinoma
Most common type of lung cancer in non-smokers
Usually occurs peripherally
Associated with hypertrophic osteoarthropathy
Metastases are common -> poor prognosis
Describe the characteristics of squamous cell carcinoma
Usually occurs centrally and can cause obstruction
Sometimes cavities with necrosis
Local spread common
Metastasises relatively late
Describe the characteristics of large cell lung cancer
Can occur centrally or peripherally
Metastasises early
Poorly differentiated
What are the potential complications of lung cancer?
Massive haemoptysis Recurrent pneumonia Paraneoplastic syndrome Horner syndrome Superior vena cava syndrome
What are the potential paraneoplastic syndromes that may occur in lung cancer?
SIADH Cushing's Lambert-Eaton syndrome Hypertrophic osteoarthropathy Beta-hCG secretion Secondary hyperparathyroidism Carcinoid syndrome
What are the likely associated symptoms of a carcinoid lung cancer?
Flushing Diarrhoea Abdominal pain Bronchoconstriction Carcinoid heart disease
What are the features of Horner’s syndrome?
Miosis
Ptosis
Enopthalmos
Anhidrosis
What syndromes / symptoms can occur due to local invasion of lung cancers?
Superior vena cava syndrome
Horner’s syndrome
Brachial plexus injury
Hemidiaphragm paralysis due to phrenic nerve compression
What symptoms may occur due to metastases of lung cancer?
Pleural effusion Headache, vomiting Abdominal pain Bone pain, pathological fracture Adrenal insufficiency
