Lung Cancer: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the early symptoms of lung cancer?
Early symptoms of lung cancer are often subtle; they may include persistent cough, blood-tinged sputum, chest pain, shortness of breath, and hoarseness.Some patients experience weight loss, fatigue, and recurrent pulmonary infections.
2. What are the types of lung cancer?
Lung cancer is primarily classified into two categories: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC).NSCLC accounts for approximately 85% of cases and includes adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.SCLC accounts for approximately 15%.
3. What are the surgical treatment options for lung cancer?
Lobectomy combined with systematic lymph node dissection is the preferred treatment for early-stage non-small cell lung cancer.Limited lobectomy is suitable for small, early-stage tumors.Pneumonectomy is indicated for centrally located tumors invading the main bronchus.
4. What is minimally invasive treatment for lung cancer?
Thoracoscopic lobectomy is the standard minimally invasive surgical approach for lung cancer, involving lobectomy and lymph node dissection performed through one to three small incisions.Robot-assisted surgery offers greater flexibility and precision.
5. Which patients are suitable for targeted therapy for lung cancer?
Targeted therapy is suitable for patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who harbor driver gene mutations.Common targets include EGFR, ALK, ROS1, KRAS, and MET.
6. What is the mechanism of immunotherapy for lung cancer?
Immunotherapies, such as PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitors, relieve tumor-induced suppression of the immune system and activate T cells to kill cancer cells.
7. How is follow-up conducted after lung cancer treatment?
Regularly undergo chest CT scans post-surgery—every 3–6 months during the first two years.Monitor changes in tumor markers and watch for symptoms such as cough or chest pain.Quitting smoking is the most important preventive measure.
