Definition:
The non-small cell lung cancers are taken as one group because their prognoses for recovery and treatments are basically the same. There are three main sub-types of non-small cell lung cancer namely adenocarcinoma, squamous cell lung carcinoma and large cell lung carcinoma.
Squamous cell lung carcinoma accounts for 31.1% of the cases. This type of non-small cell lung carcinoma usually starts in close proximity to central bronchus. Development of cavities and necrotic tissues within the center of the cancer site is a major and common finding. Squamous cell lung cancers which are well-differentiated often develop and spread at a slower pace compared to other cancer types.
Adenocarcinoma accounts for 29.4% of the cases. This type usually starts in peripheral lung tissue. Majority of the cases are related to smoking. Adenocarcinoma is the most common type of lung cancer among non-smokers. Bronchioloalveolar carcinoma is another subtype. Women who are non-smokers are more predisposed to this cancer form and responses to treatment vary.
Large cell lung carcinoma accounts for 10.7% of lung cancers. This type grows rapidly and develops near the lung surface. It is poorly differentiated most of the time and has a tendency to metastasize during its early stages.
Diagnosis:
Several laboratory tests and diagnostic procedures are usually performed.
Treatment:
Common treatments include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, drug therapy and possible surgery.
Symptoms and Signs:
The major symptoms associated with non-small cell lung cancer include; dyspnea, hemoptysis, chronid cough, wheezing, chest and/or abdominal pain, weight loss, fatigue, lack of appetite, dysphonia and dysphagia.
Causes:
Major causes of lung cancer include carcinogens similar to those found in tobacco smoke, ionizing radiation and viral infection.
The information on this site is for research purposes only and can not substitute for the advice of a medical professional. Ailments.com is not run by doctors and does not engage in the practice of medicine. Our site is not a medical authority, it is just a research tool for you to use in preparation for consulting with a doctor. We can not guarantee our information is accurate or up to date. Even if a statement made about a medical condition is accurate, it may not apply to you or your symptoms, so you should always consult a doctor. Nothing on our site should be construed as an attempt to offer or render a medical opinion or otherwise engage in the practice of medicine.
