Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK. Globally, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths, so receiving an early diagnosis and prompt treatment is vital.Only a small proportion of lung cancer cases are detected in its earliest stage. At The London Clinic Lung Centre, we offer expert-led early diagnosis and treatment.
Early stage lung cancer
Also known as: Stage 1 or 2 lung cancer, Localised lung cancer, Curable lung cancer
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Early stage lung cancer consultation at The London Clinic
What is thymoma?
Thymomas are a type of thymic cancer that causes tumours to develop in your thymus gland (a gland between your lungs and behind your breastbone). It’s generally a slow-growing cancer with a low risk of metastasising (spreading to other body parts). However, it can become advanced and affect nearby organs like your lungs and heart.
Investigations for other health conditions usually pick up thymomas, which doctors frequently associate with autoimmune conditions. However, their symptoms can lead you to seek medical advice and, as a result, a thymoma diagnosis.
Treating thymomas often includes surgery, radiation or chemotherapy or a combination of the three when it’s advanced. Early detection is vital for increasing thymoma treatment’s effectiveness.
Thymoma symptoms
Generally, thymomas don’t cause symptoms in their early stages.
However, as they grow, they can cause symptoms like:
- Chest pain, pressure or discomfort – from the thymoma pressing on other parts of your chest
- A persistent, chronic cough or shortness of breath – due to compression of the lungs and airways
- Fatigue and muscle weakness – sometimes linked to autoimmune conditions commonly associated with thymomas
- Problems swallowing (dysphagia) – caused by compression in your airways and oesophagus
Late stage lung cancer diagnosis
A chest X-ray or a low-dose computerised tomography (CT) scan is the first step for diagnosing late stage lung cancer. These diagnostic techniques provide pictures of your lungs and confirm any abnormalities or changes to your condition.
Sometimes, we advise a positron emission tomography (PET) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to determine the size, location and spread of the lung cancer and tumours.
Finally, we may take a biopsy (tissue sample) from suspected tumours. We do this procedure either through a bronchoscopy or surgery. We then examine the sample under a microscope to determine your lung cancer type and support your personalised treatment plan.
Blood and genetic testing can help us tailor treatments to your specific cancer and genetic profile, which may enhance your treatment outcomes.
Lung cancer treatment is more effective the earlier it’s diagnosed. We offer lung cancer screening services to champion early detection and prompt treatment.
Thymoma diagnosis
We take a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosing thymoma, ensuring you receive an accurate diagnosis and a personalised treatment plan.
First, we’ll assess your symptoms and discuss your medical history.
Afterwards, we may recommend diagnostic tests like a chest X-ray and a computerised tomography (CT) scan. These tests can identify any abnormal masses in your chest. A positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan can help us determine the extent of the tumour and whether it’s affecting other structures and organs nearby.
We may take a biopsy of the tumour to confirm the diagnosis and differentiate it from other cancer types.
We take biopsies using methods like:
- CT-guided biopsy
- Mediastinoscopy
- Thoracoscopy
Sometimes, we perform a blood test to check for autoimmune conditions that may require additional care and support.
With our accurate diagnostics, you can receive a personalised treatment plan led by our multidisciplinary team.
Since the cause of thymoma isn’t entirely known, there’s no obvious way to prevent it. However, leading a healthy lifestyle and avoiding smoking may reduce your risk of thymomas and cancer generally.
It’s usual for thymoma treatment to make you tired and nauseous and potentially lose your hair (depending on the treatment type). However, the side effects are usually temporary.
Your treatment’s success rate will depend on factors like the thymoma stage and your overall health. Our team will discuss what you can expect with your treatment and outcome.
Why choose The London Clinic?
Trusted for over 90 years, The London Clinic is an independent charitable hospital that reinvests into care, research, and support for those who can’t easily access private treatment.
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