Lung cancer
Respiratory (12%) Core Clinical Conditions
1B The Physician Associate is able to identify the condition as a possible diagnosis: may not have the knowledge/resources to confirm the diagnosis or to manage the condition safely, but can take measures to avoid immediate deterioration and refer appropriately
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Definition Aetiology Pathophysiology Risk factor Sign and Symptoms Investigations Management
Definition
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.
Aetiology
Smoking.
Exposure to a gas called radon over a long period of time.
Exposure to asbestos.
Exposure to other chemicals and/or substances.
Pathophysiology
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).
Risk factors
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
Sign and symptoms
Can be asymptomatic.
Persistent cough lasting > 3 weeks.
Repeated chest infections.
Haemoptysis.
Persistent shortness of breath.
Fatigue.
Weight loss + lack of appetite.
Diagnosis and investigations
Chest X-rays, CT scans, or PET-CT scan.
Bronchoscopy.
Biopsy.
Blood tests.
Spirometry.
Management
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.
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