How Should Lung Cancer Be Treated in Its Intermediate and Advanced Stages?
Staging and Treatment of Lung Cancer
Lung cancer staging comprises Stages I, II, III, and IV. For patients with intermediate-stage lung cancer, they are typically at Stage II or III. At this point, comprehensive assessment based on tumor size and the presence of lymph node metastasis is necessary to determine appropriate treatment methods.
I. Absence of Distant Metastasis
1. Surgical Resection: If the patient's condition is relatively mild and their physical condition is good, and no distant metastasis is detected after examination, surgical intervention may be recommended, such as segmentectomy or lobectomy, as per doctor's advice.
2. Chemotherapy: Following surgery, adjuvant radiotherapy or chemotherapy may be necessary to inhibit cancer cell proliferation and prolong survival. Commonly used drugs include Cyclophosphamide Injection and Paclitaxel Injection.
II. Presence of Distant Metastasis
1. Targeted Therapy: If the cancer has reached an advanced stage with distant metastasis, complete surgical removal of the tumor may not be feasible. In such cases, targeted drugs like Gefitinib Tablets and Erlotinib Hydrochloride Tablets can be used to control disease progression and alleviate symptoms.
2. Immunotherapy: Besides the above methods, immunotherapy can also be considered to improve the condition. As individuals vary in their physical constitution, suitable treatment plans will differ accordingly. It is advisable to choose a treatment that best suits one's own condition.
Patients are advised to maintain a positive mindset, avoid excessive stress, and adhere to a light diet, refraining from spicy and stimulating foods, to facilitate recovery.