EHR523 Lecture Notes - Lecture 12: Small-Cell Carcinoma, Alveolar Cells, Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Document Summary
Introduction: lung cancer: refers to the malignant growth of cells within any part of the lung tissue or airways, fourth most common cancer diagnosed in men and women accounting for 9% of cancer diagnoses in 2017. ~75% of all lung cancer cases occur in persons >65 yrs. In 2017, leading cause of cancer death and highest cancer burden: lifetime risk for developing lung cancer is 1:14 men and 1:21 women. Anatomy of the lungs: primary organ of respiration, conducting zone: Cartilage holds tube system open and smooth muscle controls tube diameter: respiratory zone: Site for gas exchange: dense blood, nerve, and lymphatic supply. Hilum: site of entrance or exit of lung structures. Pathophysiology of lung cancer: two (2) main types of lung cancer: Non-small cell lung cancer (nsclc): both cancer types differ in cellular origin and in tumour characteristics and behaviour, accurate diagnosis is important for treatment decisions. Calcitonin: strongest association with smoking, grows very rapidly and is highly aggressive.
