Early symptoms of sarcomatoid lung cancer

The early symptoms of sarcomatoid lung cancer are not obvious. Common manifestations include persistent cough, chest pain, dyspnea and weight loss. It is necessary to seek medical attention in time for diagnosis. Treatment methods include surgery, radiotherapy and targeted therapy. Early detection helps improve the cure rate.

1. Persistent cough

The most common symptom of early sarcomatoid lung cancer is persistent cough, which may be related to the tumor irritating the bronchial mucosa. The cough is usually dry or accompanied by a small amount of sputum and lasts for a long time. If the cough does not improve for more than two weeks, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms, you should see a doctor as soon as possible for a chest CT or bronchoscopy.

2. Chest pain

Chest pain is another common early symptom of sarcomatoid lung cancer, usually manifested as dull pain or pain, which may be related to the invasion of the pleura or surrounding tissues by the tumor. The pain is mostly concentrated on one side of the chest and may be aggravated by deep breathing or coughing. If chest pain persists, imaging examinations are needed to clarify the cause.

3. Difficulty breathing

Dyspnea is one of the early signs of sarcomatoid lung cancer and may be related to the tumor blocking the airway or causing pleural effusion. Patients often feel short of breath, especially after activity. If unexplained dyspnea occurs, pulmonary function tests and imaging studies are required to rule out lung disease.

4. Weight loss

Weight loss is a common symptom of sarcomatoid lung cancer, which may be related to the tumor consuming energy or affecting appetite. The patient loses weight significantly in a short period of time without a clear reason. If the weight loss exceeds 5% and is accompanied by other symptoms, you should be alert to the possibility of tumor and conduct a full-body examination in time.

5. Treatment methods

Treatments for sarcomatoid lung cancer include surgery, radiotherapy, and targeted therapy. Surgery is the first choice for early-stage patients, and can completely remove the tumor through lobectomy or pneumonectomy. Radiotherapy is suitable for patients who cannot undergo surgery and can shrink the tumor and relieve symptoms. Targeted therapy targets specific gene mutations, such as EGFR or ALK mutations, and uses drugs such as gefitinib or crizotinib to inhibit tumor growth.

Although the early symptoms of sarcomatoid lung cancer are not obvious, persistent cough, chest pain, dyspnea and weight loss should be taken seriously. Early detection and diagnosis are the key to improving the cure rate. Regular lung screening is recommended for high-risk groups. There are various treatment methods. Surgery, radiotherapy and targeted therapy can be selected according to the specific situation of the patient. Comprehensive treatment can help improve the prognosis.