Best Lung Cancer Doctors in Chennai

Lung cancer is a condition characterised by the uncontrollable growth of abnormal cells in one or both lungs. It primarily arises from the inhalation of harmful substances, with tobacco smoke being the most significant contributor. However, non-smokers are also at risk due to exposure to chemicals such as asbestos and radon, genetic alterations, environmental factors, and secondhand smoke exposure.

In Chennai, the impact of lung cancer is significant. Rampant tobacco use, coupled with an increasingly polluted environment, has led to a surge in lung cancer cases in recent years. However, Apollo Hospitals in the city boast some of the best doctors specialising in lung cancer treatment, who are at the forefront of managing this grave disease. The best doctors who treat lung cancer assert that early detection, and appropriate treatment, significantly improve patient outcomes.

Types/Stages of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer manifests in two primary forms:

• Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): This is the most common type, accounting for about 85% of all cases. It tends to grow and spread at a slower rate compared to other types.

• Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): Though less common, accounting for about 15% of lung cancer cases, SCLC is known for its aggressive nature. It grows rapidly and spreads quickly to other parts of the body.

The stages of the disease are crucial for determining its severity and guiding treatment options. NSCLC is staged from 0 (early stage) to 4 (advanced stage), whereas SCLC is classified as either limited or extensive.

Symptoms of Lung Cancer

The initial stages of lung cancer can be deceptive, presenting mild or no symptoms at all. Common early signs include:

• Persistent cough and hoarseness

• Frequent chest infections

• Chest pain and shortness of breath

• Coughing up blood or rust-coloured sputum

• Persistent headaches and dizziness

• Bone pain

• Numbness in extremities

• Jaundice or yellowing of the skin

Tests to Diagnose Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is diagnosed via a series of tests conducted by the best specialists who treat lung cancer, including the following methods:

• Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, and PET scans, are used to detect abnormalities and assess the extent of lung cancer.

• Sputum cytology: This involves examining a sample of sputum (spit) under a microscope to look for cancer cells.

• Biopsies: Procedures such as bronchoscopy, needle biopsy, mediastinoscopy, and open lung biopsy are used to extract a small sample of lung tissue for analysis.

• Blood tests: This may be done to check for certain biomarkers associated with lung cancer, such as carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) or circulating tumour cells (CTCs).

Treatment or Surgery Options for Lung Cancer at Apollo Hospitals in Chennai

At Apollo Hospitals, Chennai, doctors specialising in bronchial carcinoma treatment ensure that every patient receives a tailored approach that offers them their best chance at recovery. Notable treatments include:

• Surgery: Primarily used for NSCLC when the tumour is localised. The procedure involves the removal of the affected part of the lung containing the tumour.

• Chemotherapy: This treatment employs powerful drugs to destroy cancer cells. It can be administered before surgery (neo-adjuvant) or after surgery (adjuvant).

• Radiation Therapy: High-energy radiation is directed at the tumour to destroy cancer cells.

• Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy: These advanced treatments focus on specific characteristics of cancer cells or enhance the body's immune response against cancer.

• Palliative care: For patients with advanced or terminal bronchial carcinoma, palliative care aims to alleviate symptoms and enhance quality of life.