Respiratory System Cancer
Respiratory System Cancer Causes
Respiratory system cancer is caused by a carcinoma or a malignant mass located in any part of the respiratory system.
Respiratory System Cancer Definition
Respiratory system cancer is a range of carcinomas commonly found in the respiratory system. Respiratory system cancer may encompass all organs involved in the breathing process, including: lung cancer, mouth cancer, oral cancer, throat cancer, tongue cancer, larynx cancer, pharynx cancer, and bronchial cancer.
Respiratory System Cancer Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually done on the basis of the patient's medical history, physical manifestations, a thorough medical exam, a biopsy of sample tissue, as well as standard imaging studies such as a chest X-ray, an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), or a computerized tomography (CT) scan.
Respiratory System Cancer Symptoms and Signs
Common symptoms of respiratory system cancer include: shortness of breath, especially during exertion; syncope; dyspnoea; sputum production; fever; chills; rigors; sore throat; nasal discharge; bad breath; haemoptysis; chest pain; tachypnoea; tachycardia; fatigue; and unintended weight loss.
Respiratory System Cancer Treatment
Respiratory system cancer treatment depends primarily on the location or type of cancer involved as well as its severity. The first line of defense is more commonly some form surgery, including: surgical removal of a portion the affected lung; a lobectomy of an entire lung; or a pneumonectomy. Other treatment options to be considered for respiratory system cancer are chemotherapy as well as radiotherapy.