Chemotherapy: Open Access
Open Access

Detection Strategies for Lung Cancer: Mechanisms and Pathological Progression

Chen Hui^{* *}Correspondence: Chen Hui, Department of Pathology, University of Hong Kong, Hangzhou, China, Email:

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Description

Lung cancer, a formidable adversary in the domain of oncology, stands as one of the most common and deadliest forms of cancer worldwide. It arises from the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in one or both lungs, which can lead to severe health complications and death if not detected and treated early. Lung cancer is a malignant tumor that originates in the tissues of the lungs, specifically in the cells lining the air passages. It is characterized by uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells that can invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. The lungs are vital organs responsible for exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide between the air and the bloodstream. They are divided into lobes right lung has three lobes, left lung has two lobes and are surrounded by a pleural membrane that helps protect and cushion them.

Types of lung cancer

Lung cancer is broadly categorized into two main types based on the appearance of the cancer cells under a microscope:

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): This is the most common type, accounting for about 85% of cases. NSCLC is further divided into subtypes, including adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and large cell carcinoma.

Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): This type is less common, representing about 15% of cases, but it is more aggressive and tends to spread rapidly.

Causes and risk factors

The primary cause of lung cancer is smoking, responsible for approximately 85% of all cases. Tobacco smoke contains a myriad of carcinogens substances that can cause cancer by damaging the Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) of cells. Even exposure to secondhand smoke increases the risk of developing lung cancer. However, non-smokers are not entirely immune; other significant risk factors include:

Asbestos exposure: Historically used in construction and manufacturing, asbestos fibers can be inhaled, leading to lung damage and cancer.

Air pollution: Long-term exposure to polluted air can contribute to lung cancer development, particularly in urban areas.

Occupational hazards: Exposure to certain chemicals and dusts in workplaces, such as arsenic, diesel exhaust and some forms of silica and chromium, can elevate lung cancer risk.

Symptoms

In its early stages, lung cancer may not present any noticeable symptoms are persistent cough that worsens over time, chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, recurrent respiratory infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia.

Diagnosis

Detecting lung cancer typically involves a series of diagnostic tests and procedures:

Imaging tests: Chest X-rays and Computed Tomography (CT) scans help visualize abnormalities in the lungs. Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans can be used to detect cancer spread.

Sputum cytology: Examining mucus (sputum) from a cough under a microscope can reveal cancer cells.

Treatment options

The treatment of lung cancer depends on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer, the patient's overall health and personal preferences. Common treatment options include:

Surgery: Surgical removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue is a primary option for early-stage NSCLC. Types of surgery include lobectomy (removal of a lung lobe), pneumonectomy (removal of an entire lung) and segmentectomy.

Chemotherapy: Anti-cancer drugs are used to destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be administered before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy) to shrink tumors, after surgery (adjuvant therapy) to kill remaining cancer cells or as a primary treatment for advanced-stage cancer.

Targeted therapy: Drugs that target specific genetic mutations in cancer cells offer a more precise treatment option with potentially fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy.

Immunotherapy: This treatment boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer. It has shown significant effects in treating certain types of lung cancer, particularly advanced NSCLC.

Conclusion

Preventing lung cancer primarily involves minimizing risk factors: The most effective way to reduce lung cancer risk is to stop smoking and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.

Workers should follow safety protocols to minimize exposure to carcinogenic substances. Maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise and avoiding pollutants can contribute to overall lung health. Lung cancer remains a significant global health challenge, with smoking as its most prominent cause. While advancements in diagnosis and treatment offer hope, early detection and prevention are paramount in the fight against this disease. Surgical intervention, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies and immunotherapy represent pivotal advancements in managing lung cancer, offering personalized approaches to combat this disease.