Primary Pulmonary Colloid Adenocarcinoma of Lung – Symptoms, Treatment & Support

What is Primary Pulmonary Colloid Adenocarcinoma Lung?

Primary pulmonary colloid adenocarcinoma of the lung is a rare type of lung cancer that can produce mucous (phlegm), as its name suggests. It shows a poor prognosis (likely course of the disease). If we see the tumour cells of the primary colloid adenocarcinoma of the lung under a microscope for histopathological examination of the tumor, we can observe copious amounts of mucus in the tumour cells. Primary pulmonary colloid adenocarcinoma is a very rare type of cancer and accounts for approximately 0.24% of all lung cancers. The size of the primary pulmonary colloid adenocarcinoma varies from 1.8cm to 6.5cm. The median 5-year survival rate for patients with primary colloid lung adenocarcinoma is 51%.

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 primary pulmonary colloid adenocarcinoma.

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

The common respiratory symptoms are

• Persistent cough
• Cough with sputum
• Feeling of tightness in the chest
• Chest pain
• In the advanced stage of the disease, there may be difficulty in breathing
• The other less common symptoms are sore throat, pain in the abdomen, and diarrhea

The following are the general B symptoms (systemic symptoms) of the primary pulmonary colloid adenocarcinoma of the lungs when it spreads to other organs of the body. These are

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Excessive sweating at night
• Weight loss
• Bone pains

Diagnosis and Treatment

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 options include surgical resection of the tumour, Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Surgery is the main option, all patients with stages I primary pulmonary colloid adenocarcinoma 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.

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What Support can we Give for Primary Pulmonary Colloid Adenocarcinoma of Lung?

Primary Pulmonary Colloid Adenocarcinoma 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 Primary Pulmonary Colloid Adenocarcinoma of 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: