Adenocarcinoma of the Lung

What is Adenocarcinoma of the lung?

A type of cancer that affect the lungs is called Adenocarcinoma of the lung. Like all other types of cancer, it also develops as a result of uncontrollable multiplication of abnormal lung cells. It results in the formation of a tumor. The tumor cells eventually spreads to the other parts of the body. It may invade:

  • The liver

  • Bones

  • Lymph nodes between and around the lungs

  • Brain

  • The adrenal glands

Adenocarcinoma in lungs is most commonly found in smokers. Women and people younger than 45 years are also at high risk for developing adenocaranioma in lungs.

What are the symptoms of Adenocarcinoma of the lung?

Adenocarcinoma of the lung has the similar symptoms of all lung cancers. Some of them are:

  • Trouble breathing

  • Discomfort when swallowing

  • Wheezing

  • A cough that doesn’t go away

  • Coughing up mucus or blood

  • Fever

  • Chest pain

  • Weight loss

  • Poor appetite

  • Hoarseness

It may even cause other symptoms if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. If it has spread to the bones, it may cause bone pain. Many of the above-mentioned symptoms can be of other conditions too. It is important to seek medical help immediately when one notices any of the symptoms.

How is Adenocarcinoma of the lung diagnosed?

Apart from physical examination and medical history analysis, the doctor may suggest any or some following tests:

  • Chest X-ray

  • Biopsy

  • Fine-needle aspiration

  • Mediastinoscopy

  • Bone scans

  • CT

  • PET

  • Thoracentesis

  • Bronchoscopy

  • Sputum sample test

  • Video-assisted thoracoscopy

What are the treatment options for Adenocarcinoma of the lungs?

Treatment may entirely depend on the following factors:

  • Stage of cancer

  • Overall health condition of the patient

  • Lung function

If the condition has not spread to other parts of the body, the doctor may suggest any of the following surgical options:

  • Lobectomy

  • Wedge resection

  • Pneumonectomy

Early stage tumors may be removed with video-assisted thoracoscopy. It is a less invasive technique. Other treatment options include:

  • Chemotherapy

  • Radiation therapy

  • Targeted therapy