Lung cancer

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Definition Aetiology Pathophysiology Risk factor Sign and Symptoms Investigations Management

Lung cancer refers to cancer that develops in the lungs. Can be classified into two categories: small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Small cell lung cancer is the more aggressive form.

• Smoking.

• Exposure to a gas called radon over a long period of time.

• Exposure to asbestos.

• Exposure to other chemicals and/or substances.

Genetic mutation or change in DNA of lung cells > abnormal growth and spread of cells in the lungs > invasion of nearby tissue and organs > spreading to other organs (metastasis).

• Family history 

• Genetic factors 

• Smoking

• Exposure to a gas called radon over a long period of time.

• Exposure to asbestos.

• Exposure to other chemicals and/or substances

• Can be asymptomatic. 

• Persistent cough lasting > 3 weeks. 

• Repeated chest infections. 

• Haemoptysis. 

• Persistent shortness of breath. 

• Fatigue. 

• Weight loss + lack of appetite.

• Chest X-rays, CT scans, or PET-CT scan.

• Bronchoscopy.

• Biopsy.

• Blood tests.

• Spirometry.

• Radiotherapy

• Chemotherapy

• Immunotherapy

• Surgery (lobectomy or pneumonectomy) to remove the tumour and surrounding tissue in early-stage lung cancer. 

• Targeted therapy or biological therapy: medications used to slow the process of advanced stage of lung cancer. 

When you refer as the "2-week wait":

• 40 years or older with a persistent cough or haemoptysis (coughing up blood).

• 55 years of age or older with an undiagnosed shortness of breath (SOB) or a cough that has changed or gotten longer than three weeks.

• Those who are 40 years of age or older, have chest pain, inexplicable lethargy, or have lost weight without cause.

• Those who are 40 years of age or older, have finger clubbing (changes in the form of the fingers or nails), or have a chest X-ray abnormality that is thought to be lung cancer.