سرطان الرئة

Definition

Lung cancer is among the leading causes of cancer death worldwide, and smoking causes most cases.

Types

• Non-small cell: most common, including adenocarcinoma and squamous
• Small cell: spreads rapidly and is strongly smoking-related

Risk factors

Smoking, passive smoking, asbestos, radon and family history.

Symptoms

• Persistent cough or a change in a long-standing cough
• Haemoptysis, dyspnoea and chest pain
• Weight loss and fatigue
• Hoarseness from nerve involvement

Associated syndromes

• SIADH: hyponatraemia (usually small cell)
• Hypercalcaemia: usually squamous
• SVC syndrome: swelling of the face and arms

Diagnosis

CT, bronchoscopy or guided biopsy, and staging.

Treatment

Surgery for early stages, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and targeted or immunotherapy by mutation.

Nursing care

• Post-operative care: chest drain, analgesia, coughing and shoulder exercises
• Managing treatment side effects and emotional support
• Smoking-cessation support

Exam point

Low-dose CT screening is advised for older heavy smokers meeting criteria and detects disease early.