What is Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Lung?
Squamous cell carcinoma of the lung is a type of lung cancer that begins in the squamous cells of the airways that make up the lining or wall of the trachea, bronchi, and small airways that carry oxygen to the lungs. Squamous cells are thin, flat cells that are found in surface tissues of the skin, line the cavities and tubular structures of the body, and these cells line the body’s airways and digestive tract. It usually develops in the middle part of the lungs and major air ways of the respiratory system. Major air ways of the respiratory system are trachea (wind pipe), bronchi (left and right bronchus) and bronchioles.
Disease Causes
Cigarette smoking is responsible for 80% of squamous cell carcinoma in men and 90% in women. A strong association has also been observed between cigarette smoking and the development of squamous cell lung cancer. Other risk factors are a family history of squamous cell lung cancer in a close family member, older age, secondhand smoke, and exposure to certain types of minerals and asbestos. It is more common in males as compared to females.
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 squamous cell carcinoma of the 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 squamous cell 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 tumor.
- Tumor biopsy ( lung tumor 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 tumor, 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 tumor (complete removal of the tumor 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 Squamous Cell Carcinoma Lung?
Squamous Cell Carcinoma 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 Squamous Cell Carcinoma 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!
You can help us with your donation:
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:
