Overview

Thoracic cancers primarily include lung cancer and cancers of the mediastinum, pleura, chest wall, and breast cancer. The treatment approach varies depending on the specific type, stage of the disease, and the patient’s overall health. A multidisciplinary team typically collaborates to provide comprehensive care.

Symptoms

Being aware of the symptoms can aid in early detection and prompt treatment. Common signs and symptoms include:

• Persistent Cough: A cough that does not go away or worsens over time. In lung cancer, it may be dry or produce phlegm.
• Chest Pain: Discomfort or pain in the chest, sharp or dull, worsening with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing.
• Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea): Difficulty breathing or a feeling of breathlessness during activities or at rest.
• Coughing Up Blood (Hemoptysis): Blood or rust-colored sputum when coughing, requiring immediate medical attention.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: Significant weight loss without trying, often linked to decreased appetite or metabolic changes.
• Fatigue: Persistent tiredness or weakness that does not improve with rest, common in advanced stages.
• Hoarseness or Changes in Voice: Alterations in voice quality, such as hoarseness lasting longer than two weeks, often associated with tumors near the vocal cords.
• Swelling in the Face or Neck: Swelling in the face, neck, or arms due to cancer compressing nearby blood vessels.
• Recurrent Respiratory Infections: Frequent bouts of bronchitis or pneumonia may indicate underlying lung issues.
• Symptoms of Pleural Effusion: Accumulation of fluid in the pleural space, leading to chest pain, cough, and difficulty breathing.
• Breast-Specific Symptoms:
  • Lump or Mass: New lumps or masses in the breast or underarm area.
  • Changes in Breast Appearance: Noticeable changes in size, shape, or texture of the breast.
  • Nipple Changes: Inversion, discharge (clear or bloody), or scaling of the nipple.
  • Persistent Pain in the Breast: Ongoing pain not related to menstrual cycles.

Common Treatment Options

• Surgery
• Radiation Therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Targeted Therapy
• Immunotherapy

Multidisciplinary Care Approach

The treatment of thoracic cancers involves a team of specialists, including:

• Medical Oncologists: Experts in systemic treatments like chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
• Surgical Oncologists: Specialists performing surgery to remove tumors and affected tissues.
• Radiation Oncologists: Specialists in delivering radiation therapy.
• Nurses and Support Staff: Providing care and emotional support throughout the treatment journey.

Supportive Care and Rehabilitation

Supportive care is vital to enhancing quality of life during treatment:

• Palliative Care: Manages symptoms and improves quality of life throughout the treatment process.
• Rehabilitation Services: Pulmonary rehabilitation helps improve lung function and recovery post-treatment.