What is Adenoid cystic carcinoma of the trachea?
Adenoid cystic carcinoma of the trachea is a rare type of cancer that affects the small glands lining the trachea. The trachea is a hollow tube-like structure in the throat that transports air from the nose to the lungs. It is slow growing and can spread to other parts of the body over time.
Disease Causes
Although the exact cause of adenoid cystic carcinoma of the trachea is unknown, some research studies have revealed that exposure to rubber fumes may increase the risk.
Signs and Symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms:
- Persistent cough with mucus or phlegm
- Shortness of breath (difficulty breathing especially during physical activity)
- Wheezing cough (a whistling sound when breathing or coughing)
- Coughing-up blood (Haemoptysis)
- Hoarse voice (Changes in voice)
- Difficulty in swallowing (if the tumour is pressing on the esophagus)
Diagnosis
A diagnosis can be made using the following diagnostic techniques and procedures:
- Physical Examination: A doctor examines the throat, neck, and chest for lumps or masses that may indicate the presence of a tumour.
- Imaging Techniques: CT scans, MRIs, and X-rays help determine the tumour’s location, size, and extent. Additionally, CT scans can assess whether the tumour has spread to other parts of the body.
- Tumour Biopsy: A small tissue sample is collected for laboratory analysis to check for cancer. This may involve cutting or removing a portion of the suspicious tissue.
- Tumour Markers: Specific substances in the blood, urine, or tissues may indicate the presence of cancer.
- Sputum Cytology: A microscopic examination of sputum (mucus from the lungs) can help detect cancerous cells.
- USG-Guided Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC): This procedure uses ultrasound guidance to extract a small sample of tissue for examination.
These methods help in accurately diagnosing and assessing the severity of the condition.
Treatment
- Surgery (Best Option): This involves removing the tumour along with the affected portion of the trachea. Surgery offers the highest chance of a cure, particularly for small, localised cancers that have not spread.
- Radiation Therapy: Often used as the main treatment when surgery is not an option, radiation therapy can also help eliminate any remaining cancer cells after surgery.
- Chemotherapy: While less common, chemotherapy may be beneficial in advanced cases or when the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
The choice of treatment is guided by factors such as tumour size, location, and overall patient health.
Prognosis (Disease Outcome)
Adenoid cystic carcinoma of the trachea progresses slowly, and many patients live for several years after treatment. Early detection and effective treatment significantly improve the chances of long-term survival. However, the cancer may recur or spread to the lungs over time, requiring ongoing monitoring and management.
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