Non small cell lung cancer physical examination

Physical examination findings of non-small cell lung cancer will depend on the location of the tumor. Non-small cell lung cancer with central location may cause crackling sounds, focal wheezing, voice hoarseness, and tachypnea. Peripheral location can present with pleurisy findings. Common physical examination of patients with non-small cell lung cancer, include: crackling or bubbling noises, decreased/absent breath sounds, and whispered pectoriloquy.

The following physical examination findings may be present among patients with non-small cell lung cancer:^[1][2]

• Physical examination findings of non small cell lung cancer can be completely normal during the early stage of malignancy.
• Patient may present with following findings in later stage of malignancy:

• Well-appearing
• Older age in relation to chronological age
• Lethargic
• Confused

• Low-grade fever
• Decreased oxygen saturation at room air
• Tachypnea
• Tachycardia

• Lymphadenopathy

• Pallor
• Acanthosis nigricans

• Slurred speech
• Confusion

Auscultation

• Present pleural friction rub
• Present egophony
• Crackling or bubbling noises
• Present whispered pectoriloquy
• Decreased/absent breath sounds

Percussion

• Hyporesonance
• Dull percussion
• Tactile fremitus
• Reduced chest expansion

• Hepatomegaly

• Back examination of patients with non small cell lung cancer of the lung is usually normal.

• Genitourinary examination of patients with non small cell lung cancer is usually normal.

• Palpable soft-tissue mass

• Clubbing of fingers
• Swelling of hands and feet
• Weakness

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