Thoracic Oncology
Thoracic oncology is a medical specialty that focuses on diagnosing, treating, and managing cancers of the chest region. Lung cancer is the most common type of thoracic cancer, accounting for around 85% of all cases. Other types of thoracic cancer include tracheal cancer, pleural mesothelioma, thymoma, and mediastinal tumours. These cancers can be successfully treated and managed, with early detection being critical to improving patient outcomes.
At Gemcare Cancer Institute, we have a highly skilled and experienced team of thoracic oncology specialists dedicated to achieving better clinical outcomes, providing personalized care, and supporting patients in their recovery journey.
Types of Thoracic Cancers
- Lung Cancer: Forms when cells in the lungs divide abnormally, leading to tumour formation.
- Mesothelioma: Tumours that develop in the pleura (the outer lining of the lungs).
- Thymoma or Thymic Cancer: Tumour growth in the thymus gland.
- Tracheal Cancer: Occurs when cells in the trachea (windpipe) divide uncontrollably, forming a tumour.
Management of Thoracic Cancers
At Gemcare Cancer Institute, we understand the complexity of thoracic cancers. Using a multidisciplinary approach, we provide comprehensive care tailored to the patient’s unique needs, medical history, and cancer stage. Our collaborative team of specialists works together to create personalized treatment plans aimed at achieving the best possible outcomes.
Diagnosis of Thoracic Cancers
To diagnose thoracic cancers, doctors conduct physical examinations, assess medical histories, and perform various tests. Common diagnostic methods include:
- Lab Tests: Detect specific markers indicating thoracic cancers.
- Endoscopy: Uses a camera-equipped endoscope to examine the thoracic cavity for tumours.
- Imaging Tests: Includes chest X-ray, MRI, PET, and CT scans to determine tumour size, shape, and location.
- Sputum Analysis: Examines mucus or phlegm for cancerous cells.
- Biopsy: Analyzes tissue samples from suspected areas for cancer cells.
Treatment for Thoracic Cancers
Once thoracic cancer is diagnosed, specialists at Gemcare Cancer Institute create a treatment plan that considers factors like cancer type, stage, location, patient age, overall health, and other relevant factors. Available treatment options include:
Surgical Options
- Pneumonectomy: Removal of the entire affected lung.
- Pleurodesis: Seals the pleural space to prevent fluid accumulation.
- Pleurectomy and Decortication: Removes the lung lining and any abnormal tissue.
- Thymectomy: Removal of the thymus gland.
- Tumour Resection: Removes the tumour along with some surrounding healthy tissue.
- Lobectomy: Removes a cancer-affected lobe of the lung.
- Segmentectomy: Removes part of a lung lobe affected by cancer.
Minimally invasive techniques, such as video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) or robotic surgery, may also be recommended based on the cancer stage and location.
Radiation Therapy
Targets and destroys cancer cells, often used in combination with other treatments.
Systemic Therapies
Includes chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, tailored to the specific type and stage of thoracic cancer.