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

X-ray and 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.