Whats the Difference Between Lung Tumors and Lung Cancer?

Lung tumor is a general term encompassing all masses or abnormal growths in the lungs, which can be either benign or malignant. Lung cancer specifically refers to malignant tumors in the lungs. Understanding the distinction between them is crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment.

Lung tumors represent abnormal growths in lung tissue, which can be categorized as benign or malignant. Benign lung tumors, such as hamartomas and germ cell tumors, generally grow slowly and pose a lower health risk, but require regular monitoring to prevent malignancy. Lung cancer, on the other hand, is representative of malignant tumors, with common types including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) such as adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and small cell lung cancer, which grow rapidly, can invade surrounding tissues, and metastasize.

Benign lung tumors are typically encapsulated, well-defined masses that are less likely to metastasize. In contrast, lung cancer cells exhibit uncontrolled growth under a microscope, with infiltrative and metastatic properties. Confirming the nature of the mass through biopsy is a necessary medical step.

The formation of lung tumors may be influenced by various factors, including genetics, infections, inflammation, and trauma. The primary causes of lung cancer include long-term smoking, air pollution such as PM2.5 particles, occupational exposure to carcinogens like asbestos, and genetic or mutational factors. Poor lifestyle choices and environmental factors are significant contributors to lung cancer.

Benign lung tumors may be asymptomatic and often discovered incidentally during chest X-rays or CT scans. Lung cancer symptoms are more severe, including persistent cough, hemoptysis, weight loss, and dyspnea. Early lung cancer symptoms are subtle and easily overlooked, requiring vigilance.

For benign lung tumors, observation and follow-up may be sufficient if asymptomatic. Larger benign tumors can be resected surgically, often using minimally invasive thoracoscopic surgery. The treatment of lung cancer, depending on the stage, includes:

• Surgical treatment: Early-stage lung cancer can be cured through lobectomy or wedge resection.
• Radiotherapy and chemotherapy: For advanced or inoperable cases, chemotherapy drugs like pemetrexed combined with platinum-based drugs or radiotherapy are commonly used.
• Targeted/immunotherapy: Targeted drugs such as erlotinib for EGFR mutations or PD-1 inhibitors like nivolumab are suitable for patients selected through genetic testing.

While lung tumors and lung cancer have fundamental differences, early detection, diagnosis, and treatment are crucial. If imaging detects lung lesions, it is recommended to visit a hospital promptly to determine the nature and develop a precise treatment plan. Regular check-ups, smoking cessation, and improving air quality can also reduce the risk of lung cancer.