Lung cancer ranks among the most commonly encountered and aggressive forms of the disease worldwide, with millions affected annually. There are some advances in the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer, which have undoubtedly improved the survival and quality of life of the patients. However, the disease still proves to be very challenging. This guide will encompass the latest in lung cancer diagnostics, new treatment methods, and the work of medical professionals, including the best thoracic surgeon in Mumbai.
Overview of Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is the uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal cells within the lungs and commonly manifests as a persistent cough, chest pain, and difficulty in breathing. The two main types include non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), accounting for 80-85% of cases, while small cell lung cancer (SCLC) accounts for 10-15%. Therefore, early detection plays a major role in treating and distributing favourable results.
Diagnostic Methods for Lung Cancer
The diagnosis of lung cancer includes the clinical evaluation, followed by imaging tests and biopsy. The following are considered to be the significant diagnostic modalities used:
Imaging Tests
- Chest X-ray: Usually the first imaging test performed, this modality offers good information regarding the lungs and the chest cavity but is far less sensitive than other forms of imaging.
- CT Scan: It gives detailed cross-sectional images of the chest using X-ray beams and is best suited to identify lung tumours and evaluate their size, shape, and position.
- MRI: It uses high-frequency radio waves and a strong magnetic field to produce detailed images; it is perfect for soft tissue evaluation and detecting the spread of cancer.
- PET Scan: A radioactive substance is injected to light up the cancer cells and show where cancer has spread.
- PET/CT Scan: PET-CT imaging offers better accuracy.
Biopsy and Molecular Testing
- Bronchoscopy: Seen as direct visualisation of airways and biopsy of suspicious areas.
- Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS): This helps assess lymph nodes and biopsies for evidence of spread of cancer.
- Molecular Profiling: Helps evaluate existing mutations for targeted therapies.
Treatment Options for Lung Cancer
Treatment approaches will depend on the stage of cancer, type of cancer, and the condition of the patient. The main approaches include:
Surgery
Early-stage lung cancer is treated mainly by surgery. Less invasive techniques of video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) and robotic-assisted surgery are preferred for shorter recovery. The best thoracic surgeon in Mumbai are specialists in these techniques and provide world-class care to patients.
Radiotherapy
- Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT)—Real-time imaging targets the tumour precisely and minimizes the side effects.
- Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT)—SBRT is effective in the case of inoperable tumours, applying high doses of radiation over a short number of sessions.
Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy
Primarily, it uses chemotherapy as a mainstay in managing advanced cases and is combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors such as pembrolizumab and nivolumab to stimulate an immune response from the patient.
Targeted Therapies
Specific mutations target administering certain drugs, such as the EGFR-altered mutation drugs, ALK. From those studies, one can observe the increment brought by combining therapies in progression-free survivals.
Breakthroughs in Lung Cancer Care
- Neoadjuvant Immuno-oncology: Preoperative neoadjuvant oxaliplatin-based immunotherapy is promising for increasing pathological complete response rates.
- Antibody-Drug Conjugate: Chemotherapy is given directly to the tumour while sparing healthy tissues.
- KRAS Inhibitors: Against the hitherto “undrugged” mutations of the “indruggable” KRAS, hopefully, a new option may be developed for some previously intractable cases.
Conclusion
Lung cancer is winning ever more battlegrounds fighting against the disease as science advances in early detection, early diagnosis, and progressive treatments. The patient can feel secure and enhance his prognosis by following the advice of the best thoracic surgeon in Mumbai, such as Dr Amol Bhanushali regarding treatments. Early detection saves lives, and consult your health provider about screening for high-risk individuals; advanced care is available at leading oncology experts.
FAQs
What are the common methods used to diagnose lung cancer?
Diagnosis of lung cancer is made using imaging modalities like CT, MRI, and PET scans, along with alternatives like biopsy, bronchoscopy, and molecular profiling to prove the existence of cancer and guide treatment.
What are the most effective treatments for lung cancer?
Surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies make up that treatment mix. Experienced specialists like the best thoracic surgeons in Mumbai give care that is most likely to be optimal in outcome amongst many.