Most lung cancers are non-small cell lung cancers, and most non-small lung cancers are adenocarcinomas. This form of lung cancer accounts for more than 30 percent of all lung cancers and about half of all non-small cell lung cancers.
Adenocarcinoma forms in glands that secrete mucus. Other than the lungs, adenocarcinoma is most prevalent in cancers found in the prostate, pancreas, esophagus, colon and rectum. In the lungs, adenocarcinoma tumors most often form in the alveoli, the tiny balloon-like sacs that help pump air in and out of the lungs.
Learn more about adenocarcinoma
The symptoms of adenocarcinomas in the lung include:
Learn more about the symptoms of lung cancer
Adenocarcinoma may be diagnosed in several ways, including:
Imaging: An X-ray, MRI or CT-scan may be performed to screen for an abnormal mass in the lungs.
Biopsy: A small sample of lung tissue is removed and examined by a pathologist to determine if cancer is present.
Lab test: A sample of sputum (saliva and mucus coughed up from the airways) is tested for cancer cells.
Learn more about diagnostic procedures for lung cancer
Treatment options for adenocarcinoma of the lung vary depending the patient’s condition and needs. These treatment options may be delivered alone or in combination. Treatment options include:
Surgery: The adenocarcinoma tumor is removed from the lung.
Radiation therapy: Radiation therapies used to target adenocarcinoma tumors include external beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy.
Immunotherapy: Drugs called checkpoint inhibitors help the immune system better identify and attack cancer cells.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy drugs are designed to destroy cancer cells, either throughout the whole body or in a specific area.
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