Thoracic Cancer

What is thoracic cancer?

Diagnosing and treating tumours and cancers in the chest area, including the lungs, trachea, bronchi, oesophagus, chest wall, and mediastinum, is the focus of the oncology specialist known as a thoracic oncologist. If these malignancies are not found and treated promptly, they may spread to other body parts.

What causes thoracic cancer?

There is no single cause of thoracic cancer, and the specific cause of a particular case can be challenging to determine. However, some known risk factors for developing thoracic cancers include:

  • List ImageCertain medical conditions Lung cancer is more likely to affect individuals with specific medical disorders, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
  • List ImageExposure to air pollution Lung cancer risk has been associated with prolonged exposure to air pollution.
  • List ImageRadon exposure A gas that is radioactive by nature can build up and invade healthy bodily structures.
  • List ImageFamily history A family history of lung or other thoracic malignancies can raise the risk of thoracic cancer.
  • List ImageOccupational exposure to carcinogens Thoracic cancer risk may rise in some professions and industries, including those working with asbestos.
  • List ImageTobacco use Smoking is a risk factor for other thoracic cancers and is the leading cause of lung cancer.

One or more risk factors being present are not a guarantee that someone will get thoracic cancer, and many individuals with the disease have no discernible risk factors.

What types of thoracic cancer exist?

There are several types of thoracic cancers, including:

  • List ImageBronchogenic carcinoma Cancer can occur in the bronchi, the airways that join the trachea, to the lungs.
  • List ImageChest wall tumours consist of tumours that develop in the sternum, ribs, and muscles that make up the chest wall.
  • List ImageOesophageal cancer Oesophageal cancer refers to cancer of the muscular tube that connects the throat with the stomach.
  • List ImageLung cancer The most typical form of thoracic cancer can develop from cells in the bronchi, lung tissue, or surrounding areas.
  • List ImageMediastinal tumours Tumours of the mediastinum are found in the area of the chest between the lungs.
  • List ImageMesothelioma This rare cancer frequently results from asbestos exposure and affects the cells that border the lungs and chest cavities.
  • List ImageThymoma The thymus gland is a tiny organ in the chest, behind the breastbone, that occasionally harbours cancer.

Thoracic cancer symptoms

Symptoms of thoracic cancer can vary depending on the type and location of cancer, but common symptoms include:

  • List ImageChest pain a constant pressure or ache in the chest.
  • List ImageCough a bloody or chronic cough that will not go away.
  • List ImageFatigue feeling worn out or weak, frequently accompanied by nausea and a loss of appetite.
  • List ImageHoarseness a voice shift, such as a husky or raspy tone.
  • List ImagePain in the shoulder or back Back, shoulder, or arm pain that cannot be attributed to another problem.
  • List ImageShortness of breath respiratory problems, especially when exercising.
  • List ImageSwelling of the face and neck swelling brought on by a buildup of fluid in the face, neck, or arms (lymphedema).
  • List ImageTrouble swallowing swallowing issues, such as feeling like food is trapped in the oesophagus or having trouble swallowing liquids.

Thoracic cancer treatments

Some common treatments for thoracic cancers include:

  • List ImageChemotherapy using medications, alone or in conjunction with other treatments, to destroy cancer
  • List ImageImmunotherapy a form of therapy that supports the body's immune system in combating cancer.
  • List ImagePhotodynamic therapy (PDT) is a procedure that eliminates cancer cells by using a photosensitising chemical and a specific kind of light.
  • List ImageRadiation therapy the use of radiation with high energy to destroy cancer cells and reduce tumour
  • List ImageStereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) is a high-dose radiation therapy that concentrates on malignant tissue.
  • List ImageSurgery The malignant part of the lung or oesophagus can be removed surgically using techniques like lobectomy or pneumonectomy.
  • List ImageTargeted therapy prescription drugs targeting specific proteins or genes in cancer