Sign up for our newsletter

Bronchioloalveolar Lung Carcinoma or BAC is a rare type of Lung Cancer.

More often seen in those who are non-smokers.

This tumor often does not continue into the deeper tissues of the Lungs – therefore is described as “non-invasive“.

Has been given a description of arising from distant bronchioles and/or alevoli.

Since its non-invasive – can be classified as carcinoma in situ.

However, this tumor is quite “malignant” and often leads to death.

Bronchioloalveolar carcinoma can be classified quite similar to a more common cancer called Lung Adenocarcinoma.

Variants

1.)  Mucinous BAC  [20-25% of cases]

2.)  Non Mucinous BAC  [70-80% of cases]

3.)  Mixed Mucinous and Non Mucinous  [Very rare]

Symptoms:

• Weight Loss
• Cough
• Shortness of Breath
• Hemoptysis
• Fever
• Sputum production [Blood and/or Mucus]
• Bronchorrhea  –  a white mucoid or watery expectoration –  has been seen in late disease process

Diagnosis

X-ray

CT are helpful in diagnosis

Treatment:

• Complete removal of lobes of lung may be necessary.
• Even after treatment – recurrence is possible.

Chemotherapy Treatment in Non Mucinous BAC cases.

• Erlotini
• Gefinitib

Mucinous BAC cannot be treated by Chemotherapy in most cases.

Metastasis may occur in local lymph nodes, bone and other areas of the body.