Symptoms of Lung Cancer
The presenting symptoms of lung cancers include cough, spitting up of blood, shortness of breath, development of chest pain, pleural fluid, and other symptoms. Initially, chest x-rays or CT scans are performed to visualize the possible tumor, and in most cases a biopsy is performed of the tumor. A pathologist will determine whether the tumor is a benign or a malignant cancer, as well as the cell type of cancer that is present.
Treatment of Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is still the most common and deadliest cancer in the world. However, the prognosis for lung cancer patients is much better now than it was in the past. Surgical resection is one treatment option. A staging system has been developed in the treatment of lung cancer. The primary tumor is described depending on its size and location, whether lymph nodes are involved, and whether there is a metastasis or spread of the cancer. The cell type of cancer is important. Lung cancers are classified as non-small cell cancers and small cell cancers. The non-small cell cancers appear to have a better prognosis. When the cancer is discovered in the early stage of the disease, the survival statistics and prognosis are much better. You should consult with your surgeon and oncologist to determine the regimen of treatment recommended. Various treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy or radiation, can be given or there can be a combination of all three.
Genetic Screening and Lung Cancer Treatment
Genetic screening sometimes can determine which chemotherapy drugs are best suited for individual patients. A test for EGFR, a tumor marker, if found, may indicate that IRESSA and TARCEVA chemotherapy agents may be most effective.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with asbestos related lung cancer, please feel free to call or e-mail our experienced lawyers for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our goal is to help you deal with the legal aspects of your asbestos disease so you can concentrate on your treatment.
We are happy to come to your home, hospital or union hall to meet you.
