University:
Western Sydney University
Course:
MEDI 2003 | Clinical Sciences 2
Academic year:

2024
Views:

209

Pages:

2
Author:

Mariam A.

Carcinoma of the Lung: Risk Factors, Epidemiology, Pathology, and Clinical Symptoms Risk Factors:      Smoking: The most significant risk factor for lung cancer, responsible for about 85% of cases. Exposure to Carcinogens: Occupational exposure to substances like asbestos, radon, arsenic, and certain chemicals increases the risk. Family History: Genetic predisposition plays a role, with a higher risk among individuals with a family history of lung cancer. Air Pollution: Prolonged exposure to high levels of air pollution, particularly in urban areas, increases the risk. Radiation Exposure: Previous radiation therapy to the chest area increases the risk of developing lung cancer. Epidemiology:     Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. More prevalent in older adults, with the majority of cases diagnosed in individuals over 65. Higher incidence among men compared to women, though the gap is narrowing due to changes in smoking patterns. Incidence rates vary globally, with higher rates in countries with significant tobacco consumption. Pathology:   Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): Accounts for about 85% of lung cancers. Includes subtypes such as adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): Represents about 15% of cases. Characterized by small, round cells and tends to grow and spread rapidly. Clinical Symptoms:       Persistent Cough: Often the earliest symptom, may be productive or non-productive. Shortness of Breath: Due to obstruction of airways or invasion of surrounding structures. Chest Pain: Resulting from tumor invasion into the chest wall or pleura. Weight Loss: Unintentional weight loss is common in advanced stages. Hemoptysis: Coughing up blood may occur, particularly in advanced disease. Fatigue: Often reported due to the systemic effects of cancer. Diagnostic Evaluation and Staging Diagnostic Tests:     Imaging: Chest X-ray, CT scan, PET scan to assess the extent of the tumor and presence of metastases. Sputum Cytology: Examination of sputum under a microscope to detect cancer cells. Bronchoscopy: Direct visualization of the airways and biopsy of suspicious lesions. Biopsy: Tissue sample obtained through bronchoscopy, needle biopsy, or surgical biopsy for histological examination.