stage four of lung cancer

The most advanced form of non-small cell lung carcinoma stage four lung cancer. This stage is considered not curable, and doctors focus on treating symptoms of illness to improve quality of life. Although NSCLC usually present early symptoms, up to 40 percent of patients diagnosed with fourth stage NSCLC.

What Means

TNM system expressed tumor size (T), whether it has metastasized (M) and if the lymph nodes (N) involved. In stage 4, the tumor could be the size, has definite metastases and may involve lymph nodes. There are different levels of involvement. Because the tumor could be the size, stage 4 can be assigned to T0 or T1-4. T3 and 4 show the growth has invaded other structures such as space, esophagus, pleura, or heart.

N0 means no lymph node involvement, so that in the advanced stages of NSCLC amount will be 1-3. A '1 'means involving nodes on the same side of the body it begins. A '2 'indicates the involvement of distant nodes is still on the same side. A '3 'means that malignant cells that affect the opposite side of the chest and above the collarbone.

Metastasis M0 means no, so it will always be a minimum of M1 assignment for advanced cancer cases. Cancer is considered inoperable when they have to migrate to other parts of the body.

NSCLC is symptomatic

Even from the beginning, the disease usually presents symptoms. Because of the progress they get worse and new problems may develop. The problems include coughing up blood, also called hemoptysis and causing dysphonia in a voice hoarse voice. Other symptoms include chest pain and Pancoast syndrome, which causes pain in the arm. Finally, fluid build-up in the lungs can cause pneumonia.

Coping

While the physical pain and discomfort can be overcome with palliative care, emotional disturbance is also a concern. Support group helps patients with stage 4 cancer find hope for life. Patients are encouraged to appreciate family time or time with loved ones, and have hope for the future of the children or grandchildren. Support available via phone, in person or via the Internet multimedia.