What is Atypical Carcinoid Tumour of Lung?
An atypical carcinoid tumour of the lung is a rare type of tumour that results from excessive division or multiplication of lung neuroendocrine cells. Atypical carcinoid tumours are very rare, grow rapidly, and spread to nearby organs of the lungs and other distant parts of the body.
What are Neuroendocrine cells?
Neuroendocrine cells are nerve cells that can secrete a hormone or hormone-type substance. Neuroendocrine cells are present throughout the body, including the lungs.
Disease Epidemiology
Carcinoid tumours of the lungs are more common in females than males. It is more common in people of white ethnicity. It is less common in the Asian population.
Disease Causes
There is no well-known cause, however, certain genetic mutations are considered responsible for the development of carcinoid tumours of the lungs. Along with the genetic mutations, an association has been observed between cigarette smoking and the development of atypical carcinoid tumours of the lungs.
Signs and Symptom
In the earlier stages of the disease, the patient usually does not show any signs and symptoms, and the tumour is usually diagnosed on routine examination. The common signs and symptoms of carcinoid tumours of the lungs are
- Persistent cough
- Dyspnea (shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing)
- Chest pain that worsens with coughing, laughing and breathing deeply
- Coughing up blood
- Wheezing without having an asthma history
- Clubbing of the fingers and nails (A physical sign characterized by a bulging extension at the ends of one or more fingers or toes).
The following are the general B symptoms (systemic symptoms) of the atypical carcinoid tumours of the lungs when it spreads to other organs of the body. These are
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Night sweats
- Weight loss
- Bone pains
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are;
- Imaging techniques like Chest X-ray, CT-scan, MRI, and PET scan to see the site, size, and extent of the tumour.
- Tumour biopsy ( lung tumour biopsy to remove a small sample of lung tissue for histopathological examination)
- Sputum cytology
- USG guided fine needle aspiration cytology
Treatment
Treatment options include surgical resection of the tumour, Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Surgery is the main option, all patients with stages I carcinoma of the lung should undergo surgical resection of the tumour (complete removal of the tumour along with the removal of some surrounding healthy tissues). Chemotherapy and radiotherapy should be considered in advanced cases of cancer.
What Support can we Give for Atypical Carcinoid Tumour of Lung?
Atypical Carcinoid Tumour of Lung is rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Atypical Carcinoid Tumour of the Lung, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!
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Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:
