Non Small Cell Lung Cancer

What is non small cell lung cancer?

When abnormal cells multiply without stop reproducing, it trigger cancer. Cancer can develop anywhere in the body. The treatment will be based on the location of the condition. It is called lung cancer when it occur in the lungs. Lung cancer is of two types- Small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. Non-small cell lung cancer or NSCLC is also known in different names such as lung adenocarcinoma or sqamous cell carcinoma. As per the studies of American Cancer Society, NSCLC is the most common type of lung cancer. Three main types of NSCLC are:

  • Adenocarcinomas

  • Squakous cell carcinomas

  • Large cell carcinomas

What are the causes of non-small cell lung cancer?

There are various factors which may increase the risk for developing lung cancer. Some of the common risk factors that may increase the risk for non-small cell lung cancer may include:

  • Smoking

  • Exposure to asbestis and certain paints

  • Exposure to chemicals

What are the symptoms of non-small cell lung cancer?

NSCLC may not cause symptoms during the primary stages. When the condition develop, symptoms also develop. Some of the common symptoms are:

  • Fatigue

  • Chest pain

  • Joint or bone pain

  • Persistent cough

  • Breathing issues

  • Weakness

  • Coughing up blood

  • Unexplained or unintentional weight loss

How is non-small cell lung cancer diagnosed?

The doctor will check the medical history and have a thorough medical examination. The doctor may suggest variety of tests such as:

  • A bone scan

  • MRI, CT scan, PET scan

  • Biopsy of the lung

  • Microscopic examination of the phlegm

After diagnosing the condition, the doctor will stage the cancer. It is done to classify the condition and its spread in the body.

How is non-small cell lung cancer treated?

The doctor will decide on the treatment, based on the severity or stage of the disease, overall health of the patient and various other factors. Doctor will choose the best treatment option after diagnosing the condition. If the cancer is not spread so far, the doctor may suggest a surgery. In such cases a lobe or larger portion of the lung may need to be removed. If the condition is severe, or in the next stage, it may need a chemotherapy or a radiation therapy. These therapies can kills the cells that spreads cancer. Therapies may not always be suuitable for every patient.