Metastatic nonsquamous non-small cell lung cancer

Metastatic Nonsquamous Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Metastatic nonsquamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a type of lung cancer that has spread from the primary site in the lungs to at least one distant site. NSCLC accounts for approximately 85% of all lung cancers. Metastatic NSCLC is the most advanced form of the disease and has spread beyond the lungs to the other organs of the body. This cancer can spread to any organ or tissue, but the most common sites of metastases are the brain, liver, bones, and adrenal glands.

Metastatic NSCLC has poor prognosis and involves a complex network of tumor cells and supporting cells in the body. Unfortunately, metastatic NSCLC is often resistant to most forms of treatment, and the treatments that are available are typically only palliative in nature. Treatment options for metastatic NSCLC vary by individual, but may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and/or clinical trials.

Diagnosis of Metastatic Nonsquamous Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

A diagnosis of metastatic nonsquamous non-small cell lung cancer is usually made with a combination of imaging tests and biopsies. Imaging tests, such as CT scans or MRI scans, can help to identify tumors that have spread beyond the lungs. Biopsies of tissues and organs outside the lungs may also be used to detect metastases. Additional tests, such as a bone scan or a PET scan, may also be used to diagnose metastatic NSCLC.

Treatment Options for Metastatic Nonsquamous Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Treatment of metastatic nonsquamous non-small cell lung cancer is typically palliative in nature, meaning that the goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment options may include:

• Surgery: Surgery may be used to remove some of the cancerous tumors or tumors that are causing symptoms. Surgery is typically only used in certain cases where the tumors can be safely removed.
• Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy may be used to shrink tumors or reduce symptoms caused by the tumors.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy may be used to reduce the size of tumors or slow down the growth of the tumors. More than one type of chemotherapy may be used.
• Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy may be used to help the body’s own immune system fight the cancer. New drugs that work by targeting specific molecules on cancer cells have also recently been developed to treat metastatic NSCLC.
• Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapies are drugs that target specific molecules on cancer cells. They may be used alone or in combination with other treatments, such as chemotherapy.
• Clinical Trials: Clinical trials may be an option for some people with metastatic NSCLC. These trials may offer access to new drugs or treatments that are not yet widely available.

Conclusion

Metastatic nonsquamous non-small cell lung cancer is a type of lung cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. Unfortunately, it is often resistant to most forms of treatment and the treatments that are available are usually palliative in nature. Treatment options for metastatic NSCLC vary by individual and may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and/or clinical trials.