Resp Lung Cancer

Question 1

What is the most common type of lung cancer

Answer 1

Non small cell lung cancer- adenocarcinoma

Question 2

Describe pancoast tumours and it’s effects

Answer 2

These are apical lung Tumors which may lead to many symptoms comprising pancoast syndrome- symptoms due to mass effect of the tumor on surrounding structures:

Brachial plexus: causing localized pain to axilla and shoulder

Cervical sympathetic ganglion: Horner syndrome

Recurrent laryngeal nerve: hoarseness

Brachioceohalic vein: edema of arm

Phrenic nerve: paralysis of hemidiaphragm

Question 3

What are some of the hormones released by small cell lung cancer and the effects

Answer 3

Sclc can release hormones
Paraneoplastic syndrome

Such as adrenocorticotropic hormone: increased cortisol from adrenals and can lead to Cushing syndrome which will show elevated blood sugar and bp

Release antidiuretic hormone
Causing water retention, increased bp, edema and concentrated urine

May also cause tumor to release autoantibodies that destroys neutrons causing lambert Eaton myasthenic syndrome - type 2 hypersensitivity reaction

Question 4

What is a Paraneoplastic syndrome associated with squamous cell carcinoma

Answer 4

Release of parathyroid hormone which depletes calcium in bone causing them to be brittle