Lung cancer is often detected at the stages where there are not many options for treatment. In this regard, the advancements in imaging technology have changed the screening and diagnostic accuracy of lung cancer. It is one of the leading causes of death after cardiovascular diseases. Some of the screenings that play an important role in the early detection of lung cancer include MRI scans, PSA levels, and lung scans. In this post, we will explore lung scans to prevent the risk of lung cancer in the long run.
What are the Symptoms of Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer is a cancer that starts with the abnormal growth of cells within the lungs. The abnormal growth of cells can cause serious damage to health and often leads to death. Some of the most common types of lung cancer include non-small cell carcinoma (NSCLC) and small cell carcinoma (SCLC). Non-small cell carcinoma is a more common type, and it grows slowly. On the other hand, small cell carcinoma is less common, but it grows quickly, and it is difficult to treat.
Some of the most common symptoms of lung cancer include the following:
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A constant cough that does not go away despite treatment
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Shortness of breath without doing some hectic work
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Coughing up blood
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Fatigue for no reason
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Weight loss without any significant reason
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Lung infections and chest infections keep coming back despite proper treatment
The early detection of symptoms and diagnosis help in the prevention of lung cancer through active treatment. Screening and scans are one of the most effective methods of diagnosis of cancer, even before the symptoms.
MRI Scan and Lung Cancer Detection
Although an MRI scan is not the primary tool in lung cancer diagnosis, it is still used for scans. An MRI scan of lung cancer is useful for people who are at low risk of it. This scan is extremely useful in the detection of metastases and in assessing the health of soft tissues. In addition, this scan relies on radio waves and strong magnets to capture detailed images of soft tissues. This scan is also effective in distinguishing the difference between recurrent tumors and fibrosis. Apart from that, according to some studies, an MRI scan is the gold way of detecting pulmonary nodules.
PSA Level and its Indirect Role in Lung Cancer Detection
The PSA levels are not directly related to lung cancer; however, a high level of prostate-specific antigen in the blood might be an indication of prostate cancer. Nevertheless, in some cases, it can be an indication of lung cancer, which means a tumor originating in the prostate is now moving toward the lungs. Therefore, sometimes, it is better to check your PSA levels.
Role of Lung Scan in Diagnosis
A lung scan relies on low dose CT technology to capture detailed and cross-sectional images of the lungs. These detailed images allow the doctors to detect the abnormality within the lungs, which may out grow to be cancer. In that regard, the lung scan is an essential tool in the early detection of lung cancer.
Conclusion
It is better to take a proactive approach when it comes to lung health, considering the high number of deaths. All scans, including an MRI, PSA levels, and lung scan play an integral role in the detection of lung cancer even before the appearance of symptoms. ViaScan Las Colinas offers all kinds of lung scans and other scans that may help in early detection. The early detection also helps in the prevention of cancer through effective treatment.
