Benign lung tumors x-ray diagnostics. Focal formations in the lungs. Overview of the most common and well-known types

A pathology such as lung tumors is very difficult to classify and divide into groups. This is due to the fact that on the one hand they all have some similarities, but at the same time they differ from each other. The nature of the disease will depend on where the tumor is located, how it grows and spreads, and what is the cause of its occurrence. In medicine, it is common to divide all tumors into two large categories:

benign;
malignant.

What is the difference between a benign and a malignant lung tumor?

Neoplasms in the human body appear due to “breakdown” that occurred during the development and division of body cells. That is, it can be formed from absolutely any cells in which, for some reason, a developmental disorder has occurred.

As a rule, it is quite difficult to separate tumors based on the principle of benignity and malignancy. But in order to do this, doctors use 2 principles:

Features of growth and development of neoplasms.
Belonging to the tissue of the body from which it arose.

Benign and malignant neoplasms differ in many respects from each other. We will look at them below.

Peculiarities benign formations lung:

tumor cells and tissue cells from which they were formed are completely identical in structure;
growth is expansive in nature, that is, slow (it develops as if in itself). When enlarged, it pushes apart the body tissues encountered in its path;
does not metastasize to organs and systems;
in case of treatment does not cause relapses;
As a rule, it does not affect the overall health of the body.

Features of malignant lung tumors:

the cells of a malignant neoplasm always have significant differences from the cells of the tissue from which they were formed;
characterized by an infiltrating type of growth. That is, the cancerous tumor “eats” into the tissue of the organ, grows into the vascular system and nerve endings. It increases in size extremely quickly;
actively metastasize;
after treatment for several years, relapses occur;
have an extremely negative effect on the human body.

For ease of identification, medical literature accepted:

If the neoplasm is benign, add the suffix “oma” (adenoma, fibroma, fibroid, etc.)
If it is of a poor quality, then they write cancer (if the tumor arose from epithelial tissue) or sarcoma (if from connective tissue).

Determining the nature of the tumor is extremely important, since the choice and course of treatment for the patient largely depends on this.

Classification of benign lung tumors

Benign formations are usually divided into:

anatomical structure;
histological;
degrees of severity;
location.

The anatomical structure of the tumor tells us what type of tissue it was formed from and what its growth vector is.
By location they are divided into:

central;
peripheral.

Central tumors are formed from large bronchi, peripheral bronchi - from those located far from the center.

According to histological structure There are four types of benign formations:

Epithelial - formed from cells of the surface layer. These include adenomas and papillomas.
Neuroectodermal - formed from cells lining the membrane long shoots neurons. Example: neurofibromas.
Mesodermal - arise from tissues of adipose and connective type. As an example: fibroids, fibroids, etc.
Dysembryogenetic are congenital benign formations that have elements of embryonic tissue (hamartomas and teratomas).

Based on the severity of neoplasms, there are:

First degree: incomplete blockage of the bronchus. A person can inhale or exhale (there are no symptoms of a tumor in the body).
Second degree: the tumor begins to act as a valve, that is, a person can inhale, but cannot exhale (symptoms are quite scanty).
Third degree: occlusion (loss, exclusion) of the bronchus from the work process occurs (quite clear symptoms of the presence of a tumor in the human body are observed, as it increases in size and affects nearby organs).

Malignant lung tumors. Classification

Malignant neoplasms are classified according to the following criteria:

clinical and anatomical structure;
histological structure;
growth rate and forecast.

According to the clinical and anatomical structure, cancer is: central (localized in large bronchi), peripheral (arising from the epithelial cells of smaller bronchi), mediastinal (with this form of cancer, damage to the lymph nodes of the mediastinum is noted, despite the fact that the site of the maternal tumor in the lung is not localized ), disseminated (the lungs are affected, but the location of the primary tumor is not established).

According to histological structure, lung cancer is:

Squamous.
Small cell cancer.
Glandular cancer or adenocarcinoma.
Large cell carcinoma.
Dimorphic or glandular squamous cell carcinoma.
Cancer of the bronchial glands.

If we consider cancer from clinical point view, it will differ in growth rate and forecast.

It has been proven that squamous cell lung cancer and adenocarcinoma develop the slowest. And the fastest ones are small cell and large cell.

What symptoms do a person have if they have a tumor in the lungs?

Benign tumor lung can manifest itself symptomatically in different ways. Symptoms will depend on the location of the tumor, its size, and sometimes on the hormonal characteristics of the patient’s body. With a central benign tumor of the lung, the person initially arrives in the so-called asymptomatic period. In other words, the tumor does not manifest itself outwardly; it can only be detected by chance during examination.

At the next stage, “bells” from the formation begin, such as narrowing of the lumen in the bronchi, cough (sometimes with sputum), shortness of breath. If the tumor has developed to a decent size (a person can only take a breath), pulmonary emphysema begins. With bronchial occlusion, an inflammatory process develops, which is associated with stagnation of biological material, which is separated from the bronchial mucosa. Occlusion provokes a rise in temperature.

If no treatment is taken, then along with the symptoms described above the following will be noted:

weight loss;
weakness;
hemoptysis;
wheezing when the doctor listens to the patient;
trembling in the voice;
decreased performance.

Peripheral tumors (until they grow) usually do not show any symptoms. Therefore, most often they are discovered by chance during a routine examination or at the moment when they grow and begin to interfere with breathing and cause pain in the heart area.

Malignant neoplasms give slightly different symptoms. On early stages of their development they cause:

slight increase in body temperature;
weakness;
fatigue even from basic tasks;
general ailments.

In general, the condition is similar to that observed with ARVI, with the difference that it constantly recurs and worsens.

In the following stages, a cough appears (first dry, then with purulent sputum, which may contain particles of blood). Bleeding may also begin due to damage to the pulmonary vessels by an oncological neoplasm. When the tumor grows into the pleura and chest wall, the patient will begin to suffer from severe pain in the chest area. On late stages cancer, there will be exhaustion of the body, pain throughout the body (due to extensive metastasis of organs) and weight loss.

Tumor treatment methods

A benign neoplasm should be treated only if it increases in size, interferes with life, and worsens general well-being. Surgery is used for treatment. If the tumor is localized in the lumen of the bronchus, the operation is performed using an endoscope.
Still, most often a conventional abdominal operation is performed, during which they can remove:

exclusively education itself;
tumor body and part of the lung;
segment of the lung or the entire pulmonary lobe.

The extent of the operation will depend on the size of the tumor and the results of histological examination.

Cancer treatment is carried out using:

surgical operation;
chemotherapy;
radiation or radiotherapy;
palliative methods.

During surgery, depending on its location, the following can be removed:

the entire pulmonary lobe;
only the tumor body (so-called marginal resection);
completely the entire lung - pneumonectomy;
not only the affected lung, but also the organs located next to it that could be damaged by the tumor (combined operation).

Chemotherapy is used to fight small cell cancer. Since it has a particularly detrimental effect on this type of cancer.

Radiation therapy (alone or in tandem with chemotherapy) gives good results in the third and fourth stages of cancer, when surgery impossible due to the formation of metastases. The main disadvantage of these two methods is that they have a detrimental effect not only on cancer cells, but also on healthy human cells.

Palliative treatment methods are used at the last 4th stage of lung cancer, when it is impossible to cure the disease completely due to extensive metastasis. But it is possible to alleviate the suffering of the patient, support him and prolong his life at least a little. Palliative therapy uses chemotherapy, surgery, strong painkillers, radiation therapy and other methods.

Lung tumors in many cases are not malignant, i.e. the diagnosis of lung cancer in the presence of a tumor is not always made. Often the lung tumor is benign.

Nodules and spots in the lungs can be seen on an x-ray or computed tomography. They are dense, small, round or oval-shaped areas of tissue surrounded by healthy lung tissue. There may be one or several nodules.

According to statistics, Lung tumors are most often benign if:

The patient is under 40 years old;
He does not smoke
Calcium content was detected in the nodule;
The nodule is not big size.

Benign lung tumor appears as a result of abnormal tissue growth and can develop in various parts lungs. Determining whether a lung tumor is benign or malignant is very important. And this needs to be done as early as possible, because early detection and treatment of lung cancer significantly increases the likelihood of complete cure and, ultimately, survival of the patient.

Symptoms of a benign lung tumor

Benign nodules and tumors in the lungs are usually do not cause any symptoms. That is why it is almost always are diagnosed by chance during x-ray chest or computed tomography.

However, they can cause the following symptoms of the disease:

Hoarseness;
Continuous cough or coughing up blood;
Dyspnea;
A febrile state, especially if the disease is accompanied by pneumonia.

2. Causes of benign tumors

The reasons why benign lung tumors appear are poorly understood. But in general they appear often after health problems such as:

Inflammatory processes caused by infection:

Fungal infections– histoplasmosis, coccidioidomycosis, cryptococcosis, aspergillosis;
Tuberculosis
Lung abscess
Pneumonia

Inflammation not associated with infection:

Rheumatoid arthritis;
Wegener's granulomatosis;
Sarcoidosis.
Congenital pathologies such as lung cyst and others.

3. Types of tumors

Here are some of the most common types of benign lung tumors:

Hamartomas. Hamartomas are the most common type of benign lung tumor and one of the common reasons formation of single pulmonary nodules. This type of lung tumor is formed from the tissues of the lining of the lungs, as well as fatty and cartilage tissue. As a rule, hamartoma is located on the periphery of the lungs.
Bronchial adenoma. Bronchial adenoma accounts for about half of all benign lung tumors. It is a heterogeneous group of tumors that arise from the mucous glands and ducts of the trachea or large respiratory tract lungs. Mucous adenoma is one example of a true benign bronchial adenoma.
Rare lung tumors may appear in the form chondroma, fibroma, lipoma– benign lung tumors consisting of connective or adipose tissue.

4. Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis of benign lung tumors

In addition to X-ray examination and computed tomography for diagnosing lung tumors, which we have already discussed, diagnosing the patient’s health condition may include monitoring the dynamics of tumor development over several years. This practice is usually used if the size of the nodule does not exceed 6 mm and the patient is not at risk for lung cancer. If the nodule remains the same size, at least, two years old, it is considered benign. This is due to the fact that benign lung tumors grow slowly, if they grow at all. Cancerous tumors, on the other hand, double in size every four months. Further annual monitoring for at least five years will help to definitively confirm that the lung tumor is benign.

Benign lung nodules usually have smooth edges and a more uniform color throughout. They are more regular in shape than cancerous nodules. In most cases, to check the growth rate, shape and other characteristics of the tumor (for example, calcification), it is enough chest x-ray or computed tomography (CT) scan.

But it is possible that your doctor will prescribe other studies, especially if the tumor has changed in size, shape, or appearance. This is done to rule out lung cancer or determine the underlying cause of benign nodules.

For diagnosis you may need:

Blood analysis;
Tuberculin tests to diagnose tuberculosis;
Positron emission tomography (PET);
Single photo-irradiation CT (SPECT);
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI, in rare cases);
A biopsy is the removal of a tissue sample and further examination under a microscope to determine whether a lung tumor is benign or malignant.

A biopsy can be performed using various techniques, such as needle aspiration or bronchoscopy.

Treatment of benign lung tumors

In many cases specific treatment a benign lung tumor is not required. Nevertheless, removal of the tumor may be recommended in case if:

You smoke and the nodule is large;
appear unpleasant symptoms diseases;
The examination results give reason to believe that the lung tumor is malignant;
The nodule increases in size.

If surgery is required to treat a lung tumor, it is performed by a thoracic surgeon. Modern techniques and the qualifications of a thoracic surgeon make it possible to perform the operation with small incisions and reduce the time of hospital stay. If the removed nodule was benign, no further treatment will be required unless the presence of the tumor was complicated by other problems, such as pneumonia or obstruction.

Sometimes treatment requires more complex invasive surgery, during which a nodule or part of the lungs is removed. The doctor decides which surgery will be necessary, taking into account the location and type of tumor.

A lung tumor can be of several types various types. The peculiarities of a benign neoplasm are that during its development the body tissues are not destroyed at all, and metastases do not form.

A malignant tumor is characterized by the fact that as it grows, it grows deep into the tissues of the body and metastases are formed. The peculiarity of the metastatic type of neoplasm is that it can be in any of the organs, but metastases go to the lungs. To ensure a good prognosis for the patient’s life, the presence of a tumor must be recognized promptly and comprehensive treatment must be carried out.

Benign tumors

In mild cases, symptoms and signs cannot always be recognized in a timely manner, since it often manifests itself in nothing. Such neoplasms can be different in their structure, localization and clinical course.

Often, various types of benign lung tumors initially have a tendency to grow. However, after some time, the neoplasms somewhat slow down their growth, and are also characterized by the fact that they are practically absent clinical manifestations before complications arise. In addition, they very rarely turn into malignant stage.

Main classification

According to the anatomical structure, all benign neoplasms are divided into central and peripheral. TO central views include tumors located on the lobar, main and segmental bronchi. The main direction of growth in relation to the bronchi may be different.

They develop mainly from lung tissue. They can be located at different distances from the surface of this organ. In addition, a distinction is made between superficial and deep neoplasms. Among the most common types of tumors, the following should be highlighted:

adenoma;
hamartoma;
fibroma;
papilloma;
vascular;
oncocytoma;
teratoma;
neurogenic;
lipoma

Adenoma refers to epithelial tumors that form from the glands of the bronchial mucosa. They often have a central location. Such a tumor begins to develop in the wall of the bronchus and gradually grows into its lumen, pushing aside the mucous membrane, but does not grow through it. As the tumor grows, compression of the mucosa leads to its atrophy and sometimes to the formation of ulcers. The adenoma grows very quickly, resulting in characteristic symptoms of a tumor in the lung, which is expressed in the form of impaired bronchial obstruction.

Hamartoma is a congenital tumor, and particles of germinal tissue may be present in it. The composition of such a neoplasm may include muscle fibers, blood vessels, and an accumulation of lymphoid cells. Hamartoma often presents as a dense formation with a finely lumpy or smooth surface. The neoplasm has clear boundaries and is also surrounded by displaced lung tissue. As it grows, it can compress the bronchi and pulmonary vessels, but do not grow into it. In some cases, the tumor can become malignant.

Fibroids in the lungs are not as common as other types of tumors. The disease occurs mainly in men and can equally affect the right and left lungs. Fibroids are mostly small in size, but they can also be gigantic. This is a dense white knot with a smooth and even surface. Ulcers sometimes develop on the mucous membrane covering the tumor.

Vascular tumors of the lungs are quite common. They have different sizes and shapes. Among the main symptoms of a benign lung tumor, pulmonary hemorrhage should be highlighted. Such neoplasms can progress to the malignant stage.

Teratoma is a formation consisting of several various types fabrics. It can be in the form of a dense neoplasm or cyst. It mainly occurs in young people, however, it can occur in old or even senile age. The tumor develops quite slowly, but when an infection occurs, suppuration may occur. Its transition to a malignant form is also possible.

Reasons for appearance

Among the main reasons that lead to the formation of a benign neoplasm, it is necessary to highlight many various factors, in particular, such as:

genetic mutations;
genetic characteristics of the organism;
tobacco smoke;
various chemicals.

It is worth noting that the risk of a neoplasm increases if chronic illness with a decrease immune system, in particular:

bronchial asthma;
Chronical bronchitis;
pneumonia, tuberculosis.

To make a correct diagnosis, you need to take into account not only the existing symptoms of a tumor in the lung, but also carry out additional examinations, since it is important to detect the tumor in a timely manner and carry out treatment to prevent it from progressing to the malignant stage.

Main symptoms

Many patients are interested in whether there is a tumor in the lungs, what symptoms appear and how exactly its presence can be recognized for timely treatment. There are many theories about the development of tumors in the lungs. Exposure to nicotine promotes the deposition of harmful substances in cells, which leads to the development of various abnormalities. As a result, the tumor begins to grow, which is almost impossible to control, since the symptoms of a benign lung tumor do not appear immediately. This means that DNA destruction begins, thereby stimulating rapid tumor growth.

First things first initial stages the neoplasm begins to develop in the bronchi, and then the pathological process moves to adjacent parts of the lung. After some time, it affects other organs and also metastasizes to them.

At an early stage of its development, the symptoms of a tumor in the lung are similar to those of many other diseases, so they can be very difficult to detect. Symptoms include coughing or sputum production. Early period may last for several years. Doctors usually begin to suspect the presence of a tumor in people over 40 years of age. They pay special attention to heavy smokers, as well as people who work with harmful substances, especially if they exhibit signs and symptoms of a lung tumor.

In the presence of a neoplasm, the main complaint of patients is cough, which often occurs with sputum production. The sputum may contain blood. The cough is mostly constant, hacking, with sputum production. People with a tumor always experience shortness of breath, as well as pain in the sternum. This may mean that the neoplasm has moved into the pleura and is significantly increasing in size. When it turns out heavy load on the nerve endings, characteristic wheezing appears in the voice.

After the tumor grows and presses on the lymph nodes, signs such as:

hand weakness;
dyspnea;
sudden weight loss;
itchy skin;
rapid development of dermatitis.

In this case, the quality of life sharply deteriorates and working capacity may be lost. If the first signs of a lung tumor occur, you should consult a doctor and undergo comprehensive diagnostics.

Carrying out diagnostics

When the first symptoms of a lung tumor appear in adults, it is imperative to undergo a comprehensive examination. In addition to x-rays, it is necessary to monitor the dynamics of tumor development over several months. Typically, this practice is used if the tumor size is no more than 6 mm.

If the nodule does not grow during observation, but remains the same size for 2 years, then it is considered benign. Such neoplasms grow very slowly or remain exactly the same size. Cancerous tumors increase in size every 4 months. Follow-up for 5 years will help definitively confirm that it is benign.

Such neoplasms generally have smooth edges and a more regular shape than cancerous tumors. Often, a chest X-ray or CT scan is all that is needed to check for nodules.

If necessary, the doctor will prescribe other types of tests. This is necessary to exclude the presence of a malignant tumor and determine the main cause of the nodules. For diagnosis you may need:

blood analysis;
tuberculin tests;
single photo-emission;
biopsy.

A biopsy involves taking tissue samples for further examination under a microscope to determine whether the growth is benign or malignant. A biopsy can be performed using a variety of techniques.

Features of treatment

If symptoms and signs of a lung tumor are observed, drug therapy will not bring any results at all. Benign formation must be completely removed surgically. Only timely diagnosis and surgery can avoid irreversible consequences for the patient’s health.

Early detection of the tumor is especially important, as this will allow preserving the maximum amount of tissue during surgery, as this will avoid many complications. The recovery period takes place in the pulmonology department. Most operations are completed quite successfully, and the recurrence of tumors is almost completely excluded.

To remove the central tumor, the bronchial resection method is used. When using this technique, the lung tissue is not affected, but only a small incision is made, which makes it possible to save most of this organ. Fenestrated resection is used to excise the bronchus at a narrow base, which is ultimately sutured and a bronchotomy is performed at this site.

If the tumor is large, one or two lobes of the lung are removed. In especially severe cases, they resort to pneumonectomy, namely the complete removal of this organ. A similar operation is indicated for all patients who have received serious damage lungs.

If surgical treatment of a lung tumor was performed in the early stages, the results are quite good. Working capacity with insignificant volumes of damage is restored completely.

Prevention and prognosis

If symptoms and signs of a lung tumor were noticed at the initial stage and treatment was carried out in a timely manner, then the prognosis is quite good, since the person can fully restore performance and normalize well-being at the earliest. shortest time. Otherwise, a benign neoplasm can progress to a malignant stage with the occurrence of metastases.

It is very important to carry out prevention, which includes correct and timely treatment various inflammatory processes occurring in the lungs and bronchi, in order to prevent their transition to chronic form. It is very important to quit smoking. People working in hazardous industries with high dust levels must use personal protective equipment in the form of respirators and masks.

Malignant tumors

A malignant lung tumor often begins to develop from cells in this organ, but it also happens that cancer cells penetrate this organ by metastasis from other organs that were the primary source of cancer. Damage to lung tissue cancerous tumor It is considered the most common among all known oncological diseases. It ranks highest in mortality among all other types of cancer.

Often, tumors in the lungs also form in the bronchi, and they are called bronchogenic carcinomas. In oncology they are divided into types such as:

squamous;
multicellular;
large cell carcinoma;
adenocarcinoma.

Another type is alveolar carcinoma, which forms in the alveoli. Much less common types of cancer are:

chondromatous hamartoma;
bronchial adenoma;
sarcoma.

The lungs are among the organs that most often undergo the process of metastasis. Metastatic cancer can form against the background of advanced stages of cancer of the prostate, breast, thyroid, intestines, kidneys and many other organs.

Causes

The main cause of a malignant lung tumor is considered to be mutation of normal cells of this organ. Smoking is of great importance in this process. According to statistics, about 80% of all cases of lung cancer are caused by smoking, and most of them are long-time smokers. How more people smokes cigarettes a day, the higher his chances of developing a malignant tumor.

Much less often, cancer develops as a result of work activity that involves working with harmful substances. Working in rubber and asbestos production, contact with heavy metals, radiation, and ethers is considered especially dangerous.

The causes of neoplasms should also include harmful effects environment. Sometimes cells can become malignant due to inflammation and chronic diseases.

Whether there is a lung tumor and how to recognize its presence by symptoms is a question that interests many people who have a predisposition to the occurrence of this neoplasm. The presence of certain symptoms in a person largely depends on the type of cancer, location and stage of progression.

The main sign of the presence of a tumor in the lung is a persistent cough, but it is not specific, as it is characteristic of many respiratory diseases. A person must be puzzled by a cough, which over time becomes more frequent and annoying, and sputum streaked with blood is also released. If the tumor causes damage to the blood vessels, then there is a high risk of bleeding.

With the subsequent active development of cancer, the symptoms of a malignant lung tumor manifest themselves in the form of hoarseness, as there is a narrowing of the airway lumen. An equally complex consequence of cancer is the occurrence of pneumonia.

Pneumonia is always accompanied by severe sweating, pain in the sternum and cough. If the pleura is damaged by a neoplasm, the patient will constantly feel pain in the chest. After some time it starts to appear general symptoms, which means:

loss of appetite;
fast fatiguability;
constant weakness;
severe weight loss.

In some cases, fluid begins to accumulate in the lungs, leading to shortness of breath, lack of oxygen, and problems with the functioning of the heart. If the progression of cancer causes damage to the nerve endings in the neck, this can lead to neurological signs. They manifest themselves in the form of sunken eyes, narrowing of the pupil, and changes in the sensitivity of part of the face.

Symptoms of lung tumors in women include hardening of the lymph nodes in the chest, changes in the skin, and pain in the sternum. A neoplasm located next to the esophagus, after some time, can grow into it or simply grow until it leads to severe compression of the tissue. This complication can cause spasms and also makes it very difficult for a person to swallow, which makes it difficult to consume food. With this course of the disease, the patient’s symptoms gradually increase after eating. characteristic features as severe cough, as water and food enter the lungs.

Especially severe consequences can occur when a tumor grows in the heart, causing symptoms such as arrhythmia, fluid accumulation, or cardiomegaly. Often the tumor affects blood vessels. A symptom of the collapse of a lung tumor is pneumothorax and severe bleeding. The veins in the chest swell and become cyanotic. The patient may also experience severe headaches, blurred vision, constant weakness and fatigue.

When cancer reaches stage 3-4, active metastasis occurs in certain organs. Often, through the bloodstream or lymph flow, malignant cells spread throughout the body, affecting nearby organs. Symptomatically, this begins to manifest itself in the form of dysfunction of the organ into which the metastases have penetrated.

Carrying out diagnostics

In some cases, even without obvious signs, the presence of cancer can be recognized by fluorography, which must be done annually. Additionally, radiography may be prescribed, but it is very difficult to see small nodes in the image.

To make an accurate diagnosis, your doctor may order other procedures, such as a biopsy, which can be performed using bronchoscopy. If the tumor has formed very deep in the lungs, the doctor can perform a puncture with a needle under tomography control. In especially severe cases, the material is taken during a thoracotomy operation.

More modern methods Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are considered studies, as they allow us to examine even small tumors.

Features of treatment

Depending on the size, characteristics and symptoms of the lung tumor, treatment is selected strictly individually. The main methods of therapy include the following:

operation;
chemotherapy;
radiation therapy;
radiosurgery.

Complex treatment is often used, since removal of the carcinoma and radiation can achieve a complete cure. In the early stages of the development of a malignant neoplasm, it is enough to only carry out radiation therapy.

Chemotherapy combined with radiation helps achieve very good results. The operation must be carried out as quickly as possible short time, as this allows one to avoid tragic consequences. If the tumor is detected at later stages, and irreversible processes in the lungs have already begun, then surgical intervention is usually only palliative. People with stage 3-4 cancer experience very severe pain, which can be relieved by taking narcotic substances.

Recovery period

Rehabilitation is very important. Upon completion of therapy, it is necessary to undergo regular examination to promptly detect relapse or metastases. Rehabilitation should also be aimed at treating concomitant diseases.

It is necessary to carry out drug therapy, breathing exercises, and adherence to special diet. Anesthesia and special exercises to improve brain functioning.

Forecast

No oncologist can give an exact guarantee of a certain life span for a person with a malignant tumor, but he can suggest a possible survival threshold. When analyzing a patient’s condition, the patient’s age, stage of the disease, and the presence of concomitant diseases and pathologies play an important role. Projections for five-year survival if diagnosed early and rational treatment reach 40-50%. But in the absence adequate therapy 80% of patients die within 2 years, and only 10% can live 5 years or more.

It is worth noting that timely therapy is not a complete guarantee of recovery, since in such cases death is also possible.

Lung tumor – combines several categories of neoplasms, namely malignant and benign. It is noteworthy that the former affect people over forty, and the latter are formed in persons under 35 years of age. The reasons for the formation of tumors in both cases are almost similar. The most common triggers are long-term addiction to bad habits, work in hazardous industries, and exposure to radiation.

The danger of the disease lies in the fact that with any variant of the course of a lung tumor, symptoms, which are already nonspecific in nature, may be absent for a long time. The main clinical manifestations are considered to be malaise and weakness, fever, mild chest discomfort and persistent moist cough. In general, symptoms of lung diseases are nonspecific.

It is possible to differentiate between malignant and benign lung tumors only with the help of instrumental diagnostic procedures, the first place among which is occupied by biopsy.

Treatment of all types of neoplasms is carried out only by surgery, which consists not only of excision of the tumor, but also partial or complete removal of the affected lung.

The International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, allocates separate values for tumors. Thus, formations of a malignant course have a code according to ICD-10 - C34, and a benign one - D36.

Etiology

The formation of malignant neoplasms is triggered by improper cell differentiation and pathological tissue proliferation, which occurs at the gene level. However, among the most likely predisposing factors for the appearance of a lung tumor are:

long-term addiction to nicotine - this includes both active and passive smoking. Such a source provokes the development of the disease in men in 90%, and in women in 70% of cases. It is noteworthy that passive smokers have a higher likelihood of developing a malignant tumor;
specific working conditions, namely constant human contact with chemicals and toxic substances. The most dangerous for humans are asbestos and nickel, arsenic and chromium, as well as radioactive dust;
constant exposure human body radon radiation;
diagnosed benign lung tumors - this is due to the fact that some of them, in the absence of therapy, are prone to transformation into cancerous formations;
the occurrence of inflammatory or suppurative processes directly in the lungs or bronchi;
scarring of lung tissue;
genetic predisposition.

It is the above reasons that contribute to DNA damage and activation of cellular oncogenes.

The triggers for the formation of benign lung tumors are currently not reliably known, but experts in the field of pulmonology suggest that this may be affected by:

burdened heredity;
gene mutations;
pathological effects of various viruses;
influence of chemical and radioactive substances;
addiction to bad habits, in particular smoking;
contact with contaminated soil, water or air, with the most commonly considered provocateurs being formaldehyde, ultraviolet radiation, benzanthracene, radioactive isotopes and vinyl chloride;
decreased local or general immunity;
permanent influence stressful situations;
poor nutrition;
drug addiction.

From all of the above it follows that absolutely every person is predisposed to the appearance of a tumor.

Classification

Experts in the field of pulmonology usually distinguish several types of malignant neoplasms, but the leading place among them is occupied by cancer, diagnosed in every 3 people who have a tumor in this area. In addition, the following are also considered malignant:

- originates in lymphatic system. Often such a formation is a consequence of metastasis of a similar tumor from the breast or colon, kidneys or rectum, stomach or cervix, testicle or thyroid gland, skeletal system or prostate gland, as well as the skin;
– includes intraalveolar or peribronchial connective tissue. Most often localized in the left lung and typical for males;
malignant carcinoid - has the ability to form distant metastases, for example, to the liver or kidneys, brain or skin, adrenal glands or pancreas;
squamous cell carcinoma;
Pleural mesothelioma - histologically consists of epithelial tissues that line the pleural cavity. Very often it is diffuse in nature;
oat cell carcinoma – characterized by the presence of metastases in the initial stages of disease progression.

In addition, a malignant lung tumor can be:

highly differentiated;
moderately differentiated;
poorly differentiated;
undifferentiated.

There are several stages of progression:

initial - the tumor does not exceed 3 centimeters in size, affects only one segment of this organ and does not metastasize;
moderate - the formation reaches 6 centimeters and gives single metastases to regional lymph nodes;
severe – the neoplasm is larger than 6 centimeters in volume and spreads to the adjacent lobe of the lung and bronchi;
complicated – cancer gives extensive and distant metastases.

Classification of benign tumors according to the type of tissue that makes up them:

epithelial;
neuroectodermal;
mesodermal;
germinal.

Benign lung tumors also include:

An adenoma is a glandular formation, which in turn is divided into carcinoids and carcinomas, cylindromas and adenoids. It should be noted that in 10% of cases malignancy is observed;
hamartoma or – embryonic tumor, which includes components of germinal tissue. These are the most commonly diagnosed formations in this category;
or fibroepithelioma - consists of connective tissue stroma and has a large number of papillary processes;
– does not exceed 3 centimeters in volume, but can grow to gigantic sizes. Occurs in 7% of cases and is not prone to malignancy;
– this is a fatty tumor, which is extremely rarely localized in the lungs;
leiomyoma is a rare formation that includes smooth muscle fibers and looks like a polyp;
a group of vascular tumors - this includes hemangioendothelioma, hemangiopericytoma, capillary and cavernous, as well as. The first 2 types are conditionally benign lung tumors, since they are prone to degeneration into cancer;
or dermoid - acts as an embryonic tumor or cyst. The frequency of occurrence reaches 2%;
neuroma or schwannoma;
chemodectoma;
tuberculoma;
fibrous histiocytoma;
plasmacytoma.

The last 3 varieties are considered the rarest.

In addition, benign lung tumors, based on their focus, are divided into:

central;
peripheral;
segmental;
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Classification according to the direction of growth implies the existence of the following formations:

endobronchial - in such a situation the tumor grows deep into the bronchial lumen;
extrabronchtal - growth is directed outward;
intramural - germination occurs into the thickness of the lung.

In addition, neoplasms of any course can be single or multiple.

Symptoms

The severity of clinical signs is influenced by several factors:

localization of education;
tumor size;
nature of germination;
presence of concomitant diseases;
number and prevalence of metastases.

Signs of malignant formations are nonspecific and are represented by:

causeless weakness;
rapid fatigue;
periodic increase in temperature;
general malaise;
symptoms, and;
hemoptysis;
persistent cough with mucus or purulent sputum;
shortness of breath that occurs at rest;
pain of varying severity in the chest area;
sharp decline body weight.

A benign lung tumor has the following symptoms:

cough with the release of a small amount of sputum mixed with blood or pus;
whistling and noise during breathing;
decreased performance;
dyspnea;
persistent increase in temperature indicators;
attacks of suffocation;
hot flashes to the upper half of the body;
defecation disorder;
mental disorders.

It is noteworthy that most often there are no signs of benign formations at all, which is why the disease is a diagnostic surprise. As for malignant tumors of the lung, symptoms are expressed only if the tumor grows to gigantic sizes, extensive metastases and occurs in late stages.

Diagnostics

A correct diagnosis can only be made through wide range instrumental examinations, which in mandatory preceded by manipulations performed directly by the attending physician. These include:

studying the medical history - to identify ailments leading to the occurrence of a particular tumor;
familiarization with a person’s life history - to clarify working conditions, living conditions and lifestyle;
listening to the patient using a phonendoscope;
detailed survey of the patient - to compile a complete clinical picture the course of the disease and determining the severity of symptoms.

Among the instrumental procedures it is worth highlighting:

plain radiography of the left and right lungs;
CT and MRI;
pleural puncture;
endoscopic biopsy;
bronchoscopy;
thoracoscopy;
Ultrasound and PET;
angiopulmonography.

In addition, the following laboratory tests are required:

general and biochemical analysis blood;
tumor marker tests;
microscopic examination of sputum;
histological analysis of biopsy;
cytological study of effusion.

Treatment

Absolutely all malignant and benign lung tumors (regardless of the likelihood of malignancy) undergo surgical excision.

One of the following operations can be chosen as a medical intervention:

circular, marginal or fenestrated resection;
lobectomy;
bilobectomy;
pneumonectomy;
husking;
complete or partial excision of the lung;
thoracotomy.

Surgical treatment can be performed open or endoscopically. To reduce the risk of complications or remission after the intervention, patients undergo chemotherapy or radiation treatment.

Possible complications

If you ignore the symptoms and do not treat the disease, then there is high risk development of complications, namely:

pulmonary hemorrhage;
abscess pneumonia;
compression syndrome of blood vessels and internal organs;
malignancy.

Prevention and prognosis

Reducing the likelihood of the formation of any neoplasms in the organ is facilitated by:

complete rejection of everyone bad habits;
proper and balanced nutrition;
avoiding physical and emotional stress;
usage individual funds protection when working with toxic and poisonous substances;
avoiding exposure of the body to radiation;
timely diagnosis and treatment of pathologies that can lead to the formation of tumors.

Also, do not forget about regular preventive examinations in a medical institution, which must be completed at least 2 times a year.

This is a large number of neoplasms, different in origin, histological structure, localization and characteristics of clinical manifestation. They can be asymptomatic or with clinical manifestations: cough, shortness of breath, hemoptysis. Diagnosed using X-ray methods, bronchoscopy, thoracoscopy. Treatment is almost always surgical. The extent of intervention depends on clinical and radiological data and ranges from tumor enucleation and economical resections to anatomical resections and pneumonectomy.

General information

Lung tumors constitute a large group of neoplasms characterized by excessive pathological growth of tissues of the lung, bronchi and pleura and consisting of qualitatively altered cells with impaired differentiation processes. Depending on the degree of cell differentiation, benign and malignant lung tumors are distinguished. There are also metastatic lung tumors (screenings of tumors that primarily arise in other organs), which are always malignant in type.

Benign lung tumors account for 7-10% of total number neoplasms of this localization, developing with the same frequency in women and men. Benign neoplasms usually registered in young patients under the age of 35 years.

Causes

The reasons leading to the development of benign lung tumors are not fully understood. However, it is assumed that this process is facilitated by genetic predisposition, gene abnormalities (mutations), viruses, exposure tobacco smoke and various chemical and radioactive substances that pollute soil, water, and atmospheric air (formaldehyde, benzanthracene, vinyl chloride, radioactive isotopes, UV radiation, etc.). A risk factor for the development of benign lung tumors are bronchopulmonary processes that occur with a decrease in local and general immunity: COPD, bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis, prolonged and frequent pneumonia, tuberculosis, etc.).

Pathanatomy

Benign lung tumors develop from highly differentiated cells, similar in structure and function to healthy cells. Benign lung tumors are characterized by relatively slow growth, do not infiltrate or destroy tissue, and do not metastasize. The tissues located around the tumor atrophy and form a connective tissue capsule (pseudocapsule) surrounding the tumor. A number of benign lung tumors have a tendency to malignancy.

Based on location, they distinguish between central, peripheral and mixed benign lung tumors. Tumors with central growth originate from large (segmental, lobar, main) bronchi. Their growth in relation to the bronchial lumen can be endobronchial (exophytic, inside the bronchus) and peribronchial (into the surrounding lung tissue). Peripheral lung tumors originate from the walls of small bronchi or surrounding tissues. Peripheral tumors can grow subpleurally (superficially) or intrapulmonarily (deeply).

Benign lung tumors of peripheral localization are more common than central ones. In the right and left lungs, peripheral tumors are observed with equal frequency. Central benign tumors are most often located in right lung. Benign lung tumors often develop from the lobar and main bronchi, rather than from segmental bronchi, like lung cancer.

Classification

Benign lung tumors can develop from:

epithelial tissue of the bronchi (polyps, adenomas, papillomas, carcinoids, cylindromas);
neuroectodermal structures (neurinomas (schwannomas), neurofibromas);
mesodermal tissues (chondromas, fibromas, hemangiomas, leiomyomas, lymphangiomas);
from germinal tissues (teratoma, hamartoma - congenital lung tumors).

Among benign lung tumors, hamartomas and bronchial adenomas are more common (in 70% of cases).

Bronchial adenoma– glandular tumor developing from the epithelium of the bronchial mucosa. In 80-90% it has central exophytic growth, localized in large bronchi and disrupting bronchial patency. Typically, the size of the adenoma is up to 2-3 cm. The growth of the adenoma over time causes atrophy and sometimes ulceration of the bronchial mucosa. Adenomas have a tendency to malignancy. Histologically, the following types of bronchial adenomas are distinguished: carcinoid, carcinoma, cylindroma, adenoid. The most common type among bronchial adenomas is carcinoid (81-86%): highly differentiated, moderately differentiated and poorly differentiated. 5-10% of patients develop carcinoid malignancy. Adenomas of other types are less common.
Hamartoma- (chonroadenoma, chondroma, hamartochondroma, lipochondroadenoma) – a neoplasm of embryonic origin, consisting of elements of embryonic tissue (cartilage, layers of fat, connective tissue, glands, thin-walled vessels, smooth- muscle fibers, accumulations of lymphoid tissue). Hamartomas are the most common peripheral benign lung tumors (60-65%) localized in the anterior segments. Hamartomas grow either intrapulmonarily (into the thickness of the lung tissue) or subpleurally, superficially. Typically, hamartomas are round in shape with a smooth surface, clearly demarcated from surrounding tissues, and do not have a capsule. Hamartomas are characterized by slow growth and asymptomatic course, extremely rarely degenerating into a malignant neoplasm - hamartoblastoma.
Papilloma(or fibroepithelioma) is a tumor consisting of connective tissue stroma with multiple papillary processes, externally covered with metaplastic or cuboidal epithelium. Papillomas develop predominantly in large bronchi, grow endobronchially, sometimes obstructing the entire bronchial lumen. Often, bronchial papillomas occur together with papillomas of the larynx and trachea and can undergo malignancy. The appearance of papilloma resembles cauliflower, cockscomb or raspberry. Macroscopically, papilloma is a formation on a broad base or stalk, with a lobed surface, pink or dark red color, soft-elastic, less often hard-elastic consistency.
Pulmonary fibroma– tumor d – 2-3 cm, arising from the connective tissue. Represents from 1 to 7.5% of benign lung tumors. Pulmonary fibroids equally often affect both lungs and can reach a gigantic size of half the chest. Fibroids can be localized centrally (in large bronchi) and in peripheral areas of the lung. Macroscopically, the fibromatous node is dense, with a smooth whitish or reddish color and a well-formed capsule. Lung fibroids are not prone to malignancy.
Lipoma- a neoplasm consisting of adipose tissue. In the lungs, lipomas are detected quite rarely and are random radiological findings. They are localized mainly in the main or lobar bronchi, less often in the periphery. Lipomas arising from the mediastinum (abdomino-mediastinal lipomas) are more common. Tumor growth is slow, malignancy is not typical. Macroscopically, the lipoma is round in shape, densely elastic in consistency, with a clearly defined capsule, yellowish color. Microscopically, the tumor consists of fat cells separated by connective tissue septa.
Leiomyoma is a rare benign tumor of the lungs that develops from the smooth muscle fibers of blood vessels or the walls of the bronchi. More often observed in women. Leiomyomas are of central and peripheral localization in the form of polyps on the base or stalk, or multiple nodules. Leiomyoma grows slowly, sometimes reaching gigantic sizes, has a soft consistency and a well-defined capsule.
Vascular tumors of the lungs(hemangioendothelioma, hemangiopericytoma, capillary and cavernous pulmonary hemangiomas, lymphangioma) account for 2.5-3.5% of all benign formations of this localization. Vascular tumors of the lungs can have peripheral or central localization. All of them are macroscopically round in shape, dense or densely elastic in consistency, surrounded by a connective tissue capsule. The color of the tumor varies from pinkish to dark red, size - from a few millimeters to 20 centimeters or more. Localization of vascular tumors in large bronchi causes hemoptysis or pulmonary hemorrhage.
Hemangiopericytoma and hemangioendothelioma are considered conditionally benign lung tumors, because they have a tendency to rapid, infiltrative growth and malignancy. On the contrary, cavernous and capillary hemangiomas grow slowly and are separated from surrounding tissues and do not become malignant.
Dermoid cyst(teratoma, dermoid, embryoma, complex tumor) – a disembryonic tumor-like or cystic neoplasm consisting of different types of tissue (sebaceous masses, hair, teeth, bones, cartilage, sweat glands, etc.). Macroscopically it looks like a dense tumor or cyst with a clear capsule. It accounts for 1.5–2.5% of benign lung tumors, mainly occurring at a young age. The growth of teratomas is slow, suppuration of the cystic cavity or malignancy of the tumor (teratoblastoma) is possible. When the cyst contents break into the pleural cavity or bronchial lumen, a picture of an abscess or pleural empyema develops. The localization of teratomas is always peripheral, most often in the upper lobe of the left lung.
Neurogenic lung tumors(neurinomas (schwannomas), neurofibromas, chemodectomas) develop from nerve tissue and make up about 2% of benign lung blastomas. More often, lung tumors of neurogenic origin are located peripherally and can be found in both lungs at once. Macroscopically they look like rounded dense nodes with a clear capsule, grayish-yellow in color. The issue of malignancy of lung tumors of neurogenic origin is controversial.

Rare benign lung tumors include fibrous histiocytoma (tumor of inflammatory origin), xanthomas (connective tissue or epithelial formations containing neutral fats, cholesterol esters, iron-containing pigments), plasmacytoma (plasmocytic granuloma, a tumor resulting from a disorder of protein metabolism). Among benign lung tumors there are also tuberculomas - formations that are clinical form pulmonary tuberculosis and formed by caseous masses, elements of inflammation and areas of fibrosis.

Symptoms

Clinical manifestations of benign lung tumors depend on the location of the tumor, its size, direction of growth, hormonal activity, degree of bronchial obstruction, and complications caused. Benign (especially peripheral) lung tumors may not produce any symptoms for a long time. In the development of benign lung tumors, the following are distinguished:

asymptomatic (or preclinical) stage
initial stage clinical symptoms
stage of severe clinical symptoms caused by complications (bleeding, atelectasis, pneumosclerosis, abscess pneumonia, malignancy and metastasis).

Peripheral lung tumors

With peripheral localization in the asymptomatic stage, benign lung tumors do not manifest themselves in any way. In the stage of initial and severe clinical symptoms, the picture depends on the size of the tumor, the depth of its location in the lung tissue, and its relationship to the adjacent bronchi, vessels, nerves, and organs. Large lung tumors can reach the diaphragm or chest wall, causing pain in the chest or heart area, and shortness of breath. In case of vascular erosion by a tumor, hemoptysis and pulmonary hemorrhage are observed. Compression of the large bronchi by the tumor causes disruption of bronchial obstruction.

Central lung tumors

Clinical manifestations of benign lung tumors of central localization are determined by the severity of bronchial obstruction, which is classified as grade III. In accordance with each degree of bronchial obstruction, the clinical periods of the disease differ.

I degree - partial bronchial stenosis

In the first clinical period, corresponding to partial bronchial stenosis, the bronchial lumen is narrowed slightly, so its course is often asymptomatic. Sometimes there is a cough, with a small amount of sputum, less often with blood. General health does not suffer. Radiologically, a lung tumor is not detected during this period, but can be detected by bronchography, bronchoscopy, linear or computed tomography.

II degree - valvular or valve bronchial stenosis

In the 2nd clinical period, valvular or valve bronchial stenosis develops, associated with tumor obstruction of most of the bronchial lumen. With ventral stenosis, the lumen of the bronchus partially opens on inspiration and closes on exhalation. In the part of the lung ventilated by the narrowed bronchus, expiratory emphysema develops. Complete closure of the bronchus may occur due to swelling, accumulation of blood and sputum. An inflammatory reaction develops in the lung tissue located along the periphery of the tumor: the patient’s body temperature rises, cough with sputum, shortness of breath, sometimes hemoptysis, chest pain, fatigue and weakness. Clinical manifestations of central lung tumors in the 2nd period are intermittent. Anti-inflammatory therapy relieves swelling and inflammation, leads to the restoration of pulmonary ventilation and the disappearance of symptoms for a certain period.

III degree - bronchial occlusion

The course of the 3rd clinical period is associated with the phenomena of complete occlusion of the bronchus by the tumor, suppuration of the atelectasis zone, irreversible changes in the area of lung tissue and its death. The severity of symptoms is determined by the caliber of the bronchus obstructed by the tumor and the volume of the affected area of the lung tissue. There is a persistent increase in temperature, severe chest pain, weakness, shortness of breath (sometimes attacks of suffocation), bad feeling, cough with purulent sputum and blood, sometimes pulmonary hemorrhage. X-ray picture partial or complete atelectasis of a segment, lobe or the entire lung, inflammatory and destructive changes. Linear tomography reveals a characteristic pattern, the so-called “bronchial stump” - a break in the bronchial pattern below the obstruction zone.

The speed and severity of bronchial obstruction depends on the nature and intensity of lung tumor growth. With peribronchial growth of benign lung tumors, clinical manifestations are less pronounced, and complete bronchial occlusion rarely develops.

Complications

With a complicated course of benign lung tumors, pneumofibrosis, atelectasis, abscess pneumonia, bronchiectasis, pulmonary hemorrhage, compression syndrome of organs and blood vessels, and malignancy of the tumor may develop. With carcinoma, which is a hormonally active lung tumor, 2–4% of patients develop carcinoid syndrome, manifested by periodic attacks of fever, hot flashes in the upper half of the body, bronchospasm, dermatosis, diarrhea, and mental disorders due to a sharp increase in the blood level of serotonin and its metabolites.

Diagnostics

At the stage of clinical symptoms, dullness is physically detected percussion sound over the area of atelectasis (abscess, pneumonia), weakening or absence of vocal tremor and breathing, dry or moist rales. In patients with obstruction of the main bronchus, the chest is asymmetrical, the intercostal spaces are smoothed, and the corresponding half of the chest lags behind during respiratory movements. Necessary instrumental studies:

Radiography. Often, benign lung tumors are incidental radiological findings detected by fluorography. When X-raying the lungs, benign lung tumors are defined as round shadows with clear contours of varying sizes. Their structure is often homogeneous, sometimes, however, with dense inclusions: lumpy calcifications (hamartomas, tuberculomas), bone fragments (teratomas). Vascular tumors of the lungs are diagnosed using angiopulmonography.
CT scan. Computed tomography (CT of the lungs) allows a detailed assessment of the structure of benign lung tumors, which determines not only dense inclusions, but also the presence of adipose tissue characteristic of lipomas, fluid - in tumors vascular origin, dermoid cysts. The contrast bolus-enhanced computed tomography method makes it possible to differentiate benign lung tumors from tuberculomas, peripheral cancer, metastases, etc.
Bronchial endoscopy. In the diagnosis of lung tumors, bronchoscopy is used, which allows not only to examine the tumor, but also to perform a biopsy (for central tumors) and obtain material for cytological examination. With a peripheral location of the tumor lung bronchoscopy allows us to identify indirect signs of the blastomatous process: compression of the bronchus from the outside and narrowing of its lumen, displacement of branches bronchial tree and changing their angle.
Biopsy. For peripheral lung tumors, transthoracic aspiration or puncture biopsy of the lung is performed under X-ray or ultrasound control. If there is a lack of diagnostic data from special research methods, they resort to thoracoscopy or thoracotomy with biopsy.

Treatment

All benign lung tumors, regardless of the risk of their malignancy, are subject to surgical removal (in the absence of contraindications to surgical treatment). The operations are performed by thoracic surgeons. The earlier a lung tumor is diagnosed and removed, the less volume and trauma from surgery, the risk of complications and the development of irreversible processes in the lungs, including malignancy of the tumor and its metastasis. Apply the following types surgical interventions:

Bronchial resection. Central lung tumors are usually removed using sparing (without lung tissue) bronchial resection. Tumors with a narrow base are removed by fenestrated resection of the bronchial wall followed by suturing the defect or bronchotomy. Broad-based lung tumors are removed by circular resection of the bronchus and interbronchial anastomosis.
Lung resection. If complications in the lung have already developed (bronchiectasis, abscesses, fibrosis), they resort to removing one or two lobes of the lung (lobectomy or bilobectomy). If irreversible changes develop in the entire lung, it is removed - pneumonectomy. Peripheral lung tumors located in the lung tissue are removed by enucleation (enucleation), segmental or marginal resection of the lung, with large sizes tumors or complicated course resort to lobectomy.

Surgical treatment of benign lung tumors is usually performed by thoracoscopy or thoracotomy. Benign tumors lung central localizations growing on a thin stalk can be removed endoscopically. However, this method is associated with the risk of bleeding, insufficiently radical removal, the need for repeated bronchological monitoring and a biopsy of the bronchial wall at the location of the tumor stalk.

If a malignant lung tumor is suspected, during the operation an urgent histological examination of the tumor tissue is performed. If the malignancy of the tumor is morphologically confirmed, the scope of surgical intervention is performed as in lung cancer.

Prognosis and prevention

With timely treatment and diagnostic measures, long-term results are favorable. Relapses following radical removal of benign lung tumors are rare. The prognosis for lung carcinoids is less favorable. Taking into account the morphological structure of the carcinoid, the five-year survival rate for a highly differentiated type of carcinoid is 100%, for a moderately differentiated type - 90%, for a poorly differentiated type - 37.9%. Specific prevention has not been developed. Timely treatment of infectious and inflammatory lung diseases, avoidance of smoking and contact with harmful pollutants can minimize the risk of neoplasms.