Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a malignant (cancerous) tumor that starts in cells of the lung, usually in the cells lining air passages. The two main types are small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which are treated differently. If the tumor has both types of cells, it is referred to as mixed small cell/large cell cancer. About 85% of all lung cancers are of the non small-cell type with three sub-types. The subtypes are divided based on cellular size, shape, and chemical make-up, and diagnosis is based on how the cells appear under a microscope.

Early-stage lung cancer often does not cause symptoms. If the cancer grows, some common symptoms may include a worsening cough, breathing problems, constant chest pain, coughing up blood, a hoarse voice, frequent infections, fatigue, and weight loss. Other health problems may cause these symptoms, but anyone experiencing them should see a physician.

Lung cancer is rarely found early, because most people who have it do not show signs of the disease until it has progressed. If lung cancer is detected during the early stages of the disease, it is usually found by accident. Some tests doctors use to find lung cancer, and to see if it has spread, are chest X-ray, CT scan, MRI, PET scan, bone scan, ultrasound, biopsy, and/or sputum cytology, needle biopsy, and/or bronchoscopy.

Treatments for lung cancer may include chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. More than one kind of treatment may be used at one time, depending on the stage of your cancer.

An Introduction to the LDH Test in Lung Cancer

For people with lung cancer, there is a growing interest in the LDH Test and what a change in LDH levels may mean. To learn more about the LDH Test in lung cancer, click here.

An Introduction to the NSE Test in Lung Cancer

For people with lung cancer, there is a growing interest in the NSE Test and what a change in NSE levels may mean. To learn more about the NSE Test in lung cancer, click here.
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American Lung Association 
Volunteer health organization's site offers facts about lung cancer, services and support, special reports, advocacy, plus help to quit smoking.

Lung Cancer Online Foundation
A comprehensive, annotated directory to Internet information and resources for patients and families, cited as a leading Web site for lung cancer in medical journals, cancer support publications, and the media. Also gives general information on symptoms, treatment options, services, and support.

MedlinePlus
Developed by government agencies and other health organizations, this site contains information about drugs, an illustrated medical encyclopedia, lots of interactive patient tutorials, and the latest health news. Also features a “guide to healthy web surfing.”

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 
Federally supported site offers basic information about lung cancer plus the latest Surgeon General's report, statistics, publications, community activities, and tips on how to quit smoking.

National Cancer Institute     
A detailed online booklet listing possible causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and coping techniques for lung cancer.

Womenshealth.gov 
The Federal Government Source for women's health information; includes FAQs, publications, organizations, statistics, and phone numbers to call for support, more information, or assistance.

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