What is Primary Tracheal Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
Primary Tracheal Squamous Cell Carcinoma is a rare cancer that originates in the lining of the trachea, which is the windpipe connecting the throat to the lungs. It is a separate disease from lung squamous cell carcinoma, even though both arise from similar types of epithelial cells.
This tumour develops directly in the tracheal mucosa and can obstruct the airway as it grows.
Incidence
Primary cancers of the trachea are very uncommon. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type of tracheal cancer in adults. It is more frequently seen in older individuals and has a strong association with smoking.
Because it is rare, it is often misdiagnosed initially as asthma or chronic bronchitis.
Symptoms
Symptoms usually develop due to airway obstruction. Patients commonly experience persistent cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, or noisy breathing. Some may cough up blood.
As the tumour enlarges, breathing difficulty becomes more severe. Because symptoms resemble common respiratory diseases, diagnosis may be delayed.
Diagnosis
Imaging studies such as CT scan of the chest can reveal narrowing or a mass within the trachea. Bronchoscopy, where a camera is inserted into the airway, allows direct visualization of the tumour and biopsy.
Microscopic examination confirms squamous cell carcinoma arising from the tracheal lining. It is important to rule out spread from lung cancer to confirm that it is truly a primary tracheal tumour.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the stage and location of the tumour. Surgical removal of the affected tracheal segment offers the best chance of cure when feasible.
Radiation therapy is commonly used, either alone or after surgery. Chemotherapy may be added in advanced cases.
Prognosis
Prognosis varies depending on how early the tumour is detected. Early-stage tumours that can be completely removed surgically have better outcomes. Advanced disease with airway invasion or distant spread carries a poorer prognosis. Early recognition is critical to improve survival.
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