Y3 Lung Cancer

Question 1

How is carcinoma of the lung classified?

Answer 1

20% - Small cell carcinoma’s (highly aggressive).

80% - Non-small cell carcinoma (adenocarcinoma or squamous or NSCC NOS).

Question 2

Histology of Non-small cell lung cancers:

Answer 2

Question 3

Risk factors of lung cancer:

Answer 3

Smoking

Asbestos exposure

Radioactive emissions

Volatile hydrocarbons

Fuel exhausts

Question 4

Common symptoms of lung cancer:

Answer 4

Haemoptysis (coughing blood)

Breathlessness

Chest pain

Cough

Wheeze

Question 5

What are the Intrathoracic Metastatic Manifestations of lung cancer?

Answer 5

Question 6

What are the common sites of lung metastasis?

Answer 6

Liver

Brain

Bones

Adrenals

Note: 1/3 of patients with lung cancer have distant metastasis.

Question 7

How can SVC obstruction due to a tumour in the right upper lobe of the lung present?

Answer 7

The most common symptoms of SVCS include: Swelling of your face, neck, upper body, and arms. Trouble breathing or shortness of breath. Coughing.

Question 8

What do you need to do when diagnosing someone with lung cancer?

Answer 8

1. Determine their lung function.
2. Determine and maximise performance state.
3. Establish accurate stage.
4. Determine cell type and genetics.

Treatment.

Question 9

How is performance state assessed?

Answer 9

0 - Able to carry out normal activities

1 - Able to carry out light work

2 - Unable to carry out light work

3 - Limited self care

4 - Completely disabled

Question 10

Gynecomastia is associated with which type of lung cancer?

Answer 10

Adenocarcinoma of the lung.