What is Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma of the Lung?
Mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the lung is a rare type of lung cancer and accounts for 0.1 to 0.2% of all lung cancers. The 5- and 7-year survival rate is 72.1%. Mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the lung is a lung cancer arising from the cells of the minor salivary glands that form the lining of the trachea and bronchi. There are two types of mucoepidermoid lung carcinoma: low-grade mucoepidermoid lung carcinoma and high-grade mucoepidermoid lung carcinoma. High-grade mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the lung can grow rapidly and spread to other distant parts of the body.
Disease Etiology (Causes)
There is no definite well-known cause. However, certain genetic mutations (alteration or deletion in normal genes or chromosomes) and long-term cigarette smoking are potential risk factors for the development of mucoepidermoid carcinoma of lung.
Signs and Symptoms
Signs and symptoms depend on the extent and spread of the disease to other organs or parts of the body. If the cancer is limited to the lungs, the patient will only experience signs and symptoms of the respiratory system. At the same time, in cases where this cancer spreads to other parts of the body, the patient also experiences B symptoms of cancer. General respiratory symptoms of mucoepidermoid carcinoma of lung
- 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 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 mucoepidermoid carcinoma of 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 Icarcinoma 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 advance cases of cancer.
What Support can we Give for Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma of the Lung?
Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma of the 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 Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma 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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