Stages of squamous cell carcinoma of the lung
The stage classification is based on the size of the cancer and how far it has spread to lymph nodes or other organs. It is divided into stages 0-4. In stage 0, the tumor is still very small and only affects the uppermost layer.In stage 1 the tumor is less than 5 cm in size.
In stage 2 the tumor is larger and lymph nodes may be infiltrated which are located near the tumor. In stage 3, lymph nodes are also affected which are a little distant from the actual lung cancer. In addition, the tumor is larger and may have grown into other structures, such as the esophagus. As soon as a metastasis is present, it is stage 4, which is also called TNM classification or staging in clinical practice.
Causes of squamous cell carcinoma of the lung
Smoking is the number one cause of lung cancer. Smoking is responsible for about 85% of lung cancers. The lung cancer develops over several decades of continuous smoking.
Passive smoking also damages the lungs and can lead to the development of cancer. The same is true of industrial and traffic exhaust fumes. Lung cancer can be caused by various substances, which is why lung cancer is more common in some occupational groups.
One working material is for example asbestos. But chromate-4 compounds can also cause lung cancer. Regardless of external influences, there are still genetic factors that increase the risk of developing lung cancer. For example, the risk is increased if one parent has lung cancer. However, certain previous damage to the lungs can also facilitate the development of lung cancer.
Diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma of the lung
If lung carcinoma is suspected, an X-ray and a CT of the chest is performed. This provides a very good image of the lung, so that lung cancer can be detected. A bronchoscopy is also performed.
In a bronchoscopy, the bronchial tubes are examined with a flexible camera via the trachea. With video-assisted thoracoscopy, a minimally invasive procedure on the thorax, a small sample of the tumor tissue can be removed. This is then examined with a microscope.
This makes it possible to determine what kind of cancer it is, which in turn is crucial for the therapy. In addition, a functional test of the lungs is carried out, especially if the tumor is operated on. Finally, further imaging examinations are performed to rule out metastases, such as an ultrasound of the liver.
