Treatment of lung cancer

Overview of lung cancer treatment methods

Overview

Lung cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the lungs. It is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Treatment for lung cancer depends on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health.

Types of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is primarily divided into two main types: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). NSCLC is more common and generally grows and spreads more slowly than SCLC.

Treatment Options

Surgery

Surgery is often used to treat early-stage NSCLC. The goal is to remove the tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue. Types of surgery include lobectomy, pneumonectomy, and segmentectomy.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It can be used as a primary treatment or in combination with other treatments. It is often used when surgery is not an option.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. It can be administered orally or intravenously. Chemotherapy is often used in combination with surgery or radiation therapy.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy uses drugs to target specific molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. This treatment is often used for NSCLC with specific genetic mutations.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. It is a newer form of treatment that has shown promise in treating advanced NSCLC.

Palliative Care

Palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life for patients with advanced lung cancer. It can be provided alongside curative treatments.

Images

Creative Commons license icon

Monoclonal antibodies used in NSCLC treatment

Pharmaceuticals used in lung cancer treatment

Algorithm for NSCLC treatment

Survival rates with modern immunotherapy

Related Pages

• Cancer treatment
• Oncology
• Lung cancer staging