Lung Cancer: Treatment Options When Cancer Spreads

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the two most common forms of cancer and makes up approximately 85 percent of lung cancers. However, most people overlook symptoms of lung cancer, such as fatigue and coughing, making early-stage lung cancer difficult to detect. After lung cancer has been detected, determining the stage of the cancer is an important next step.

Stages of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Stage I: Cancer is detected only in the lungs and has not spread.

Stage II: Cancer is in the lung and has spread to nearby lymph nodes.

Stage III: Cancer is found in the lung and in the lymph nodes in the middle of the chest. This stage is also described as locally advanced disease.

Stage IV: Due to the spread of the disease to both lungs, this is the most advanced stage of lung cancer. Fluid is usually found in the area around the lungs, or to another part of the body, such as the liver or other organs.

The stage of a person’s lung cancer plays a large role in determining the best treatment plan. Stage I and II lung cancer patients in good health are usually treated with surgery. However, for those in poor medical condition, radiation therapy can be an effective alternative.

Those healthy enough for surgery may have small tumors that can be removed surgically, but they may suffer from other medical problems. For these patients, important treatment options like CyberKnife^® offer an alternative.

CyberKnife offers effective treatment of lung tumors while carrying a low risk of side effects. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, investigate all options available before seeking treatment. You can learn more about how Oklahoma CyberKnife treats lung cancer by contacting our center.

This is not intended as medical advice to replace the expertise and judgment of your health care team. It is intended to help you and your family make informed decisions, together with your doctor.