Large cell carcinoma of the lung history and symptoms

The hallmark of large cell carcinoma of the lung is non-productive chronic cough, weight loss, and fatigue. A positive history of smoking, exposure to asbestos, or a high risk occupation may be suggestive of large cell carcinoma of the lung. Symptoms related with large cell carcinoma of the lung will vary depending on the size and location of the tumor. Common symptoms of large cell carcinoma of the lung may also include: shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain.

• Obtaining the history is an important aspect of making a diagnosis of large cell carcinoma of the lung. It provides insight into natural evolution of the disease. Complete history will help determine the likelihood of metastases, and the association with other conditions. Specific symptoms description such as duration, onset, and progression are important for making the diagnosis. Specific areas of focus when obtaining the history, are outlined below:^[1][2][3]
• Family history of cancer
• Personal history of cancer

• Colorectal cancer
• Bladder cancer
• Breast cancer
• Prostate cancer

• Positive history of active/passive smoking

• Number of cigarettes/year
• Number of years/months of active smoking
• Number of years/months of smoking cessation

• High occupational risk

• Exposure to asbestos or other chemicals

• The majority of large cell carcinoma of the lungs are asymptomatic and are usually found incidentally.^[2]
• The hallmark of large cell carcinoma of the lung is chronic cough, weight loss, and hemoptysis.
• Other symptoms that suggest large cell carcinoma of the lung, include:^[4][5]

• Dyspnea
• Hemoptysis
• Chronic coughing
• Wheezing
• Chest pain
• Abdominal pain
• Cachexia
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Dysphonia

• Other less common symptoms of large cell carcinoma of the lung, include:

• Bone pain
• Dysphagia
• Fatigue
• Numbness in extremities
• Dizziness
• Seizure

Template:WikiDoc Sources