Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment by Stage

One of the most important factors affecting treatment for non-small cell lung cancer is the stage of the disease. The stage of the cancer will help determine which treatment options are available. The following eMedTV article breaks down options for non-small cell lung cancer treatment by stage of the disease.

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment by Stage: An Overview

Non-small cell lung cancer treatment is typically conducted based on the stage of cancer. These stages include:
 
  • Occult
  • Stage 0 (carcinoma in situ)
  • Stage I
  • Stage II
  • Stage III (including IIIA and IIIB)
  • Stage IV
  • Recurrent.
     

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment at the Occult Stage

In the occult stage of non-small cell lung cancer, tests are conducted to find the main tumor (cancer). These tests may include the following:
 
  • Chest x-ray: An x-ray of the organs and bones inside the chest. An x-ray is a type of energy beam that can go through the body and onto film, making a picture of areas inside the body.
     
  • Bronchoscopy: A procedure to look inside the trachea and large airways in the lung for abnormal areas. A bronchoscope (a thin, lighted tube) is inserted through the nose or mouth into the trachea and lungs. Tissue samples may be taken for biopsy.
     
  • CT scan (CAT scan): A procedure that makes a series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body, taken from different angles. The pictures are made by a computer linked to an x-ray machine. A dye may be injected into a vein or swallowed to help the organs or tissues show up more clearly. This procedure is also called computed tomography, computerized tomography, or computerized axial tomography.
     
Lung cancer that is found at this early stage can usually be cured by surgery.
 

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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
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