Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Causes
Major causes of lung cancer include carcinogens similar to those found in tobacco smoke, ionizing radiation and viral infection.
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer 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.
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Diagnosis
Several laboratory tests and diagnostic procedures are usually performed.
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer 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.
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment
Common treatments include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, drug therapy and possible surgery.