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.