This article will look at the different types of lung neoplasms, as well as causes and treatment options.
Although the words “lung neoplasm” may sound ominous, these growths arent always a cause for concern.
A malignant neoplasm, orlung cancer, is much more concerning.
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It requires immediate attention.
These types of cancer are treated differently than the more common lung cancers.
Recap
Lung neoplasm can be benign or cancerous.
There are three main types of benign tumors: hamartomas, bronchial adenomas, and papilloma.
These tumors can often be left untreated, only needing to be monitored for growth regularly.
Types of malignant lung neoplasms include small cell carcinoma, non-small cell carcinoma, and mesothelioma.
Smoking isnt the only cause of lung neoplasms.
Other causes of lung neoplasms are:
Sometimes, genetics may predispose you to lung cancer.
Smoking is the biggest risk factor for developing a lung neoplasm.
Imaging is usually ordered next.
In this group, periodic lung cancer screening with low-dose CT is encouraged during this period.
During this procedure, your doctor will usually conduct a biopsy.
Many lung neoplasms are found incidentally during imaging tests for another condition.
Testing of phlegm, or mucus, that has been coughed up or a biopsy may also be done.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapyis a group of medicines that jump-starts your immune system to target and kill cancer cells.
It is more commonly used to treat small cell lung cancer.
Currently, two immunotherapy treatments are used for lung cancer areKeytruda (pembrolizumab) andTecentriq (atezolizumab).
They can be used alone as a primary form of treatment or combined with chemotherapy.
Still, despite a healthcare team’s best efforts, sometimes treatments dont work.
Knowing exactly when to start discussing palliative care (relieving symptoms) can be difficult.
Summary
Lung neoplasms are abnormal growths of tissue that form in the lungs.
Many are benign (noncancerous) but some may be malignant (cancerous).
Hearing the word cancer can be stressful.
Dont panicbut do talk to your doctor about your concerns and what your next step should be.
The key is to take things one day at a time.
The uncontrollable growth and invasion of these cells into other tissues is called cancer.
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