Lung cancer, a devastating disease affecting millions worldwide, primarily stems from prolonged exposure to harmful substances. While smoking remains a significant risk factor, accounting for most lung cancer cases, non-smokers are also susceptible due to passive smoke, air pollution, and occupational hazards. Dr. Kapil Uttamrao Raut, MD Medicine, DM Medical Oncology, sheds light on the importance of emerging biomarkers for lung cancer diagnosis and prognosis.
Major Symptoms Of Lung Cancer Lung cancer symptoms often appear in advanced stages, complicating early detection. Common signs include a persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and recurrent respiratory infections. In some cases, lung cancer may exhibit non-respiratory symptoms like bone pain, headaches, and neurological issues if it metastasizes.
Diagnosing Lung Cancer Dr. Raut explains, “Lung cancer diagnosis combines imaging tests (chest X-rays, CT scans) and biopsies.” Biopsies analyze cells for cancerous growth, determining cancer type and stage. Additional tests such as bronchoscopy, PET scans, and genetic testing provide more data. The prognosis varies based on type, stage, and overall health.
Emerging Biomarkers Revolutionize Care Emerging biomarkers have the potential to transform lung cancer management by offering early detection, personalized treatments, and improved outcomes. Traditional methods like imaging and biopsies have limitations, but promising biomarkers enhance accuracy and invasiveness.
Promise of Liquid Biopsies Liquid biopsies analyze circulating tumor components in fluids, providing real-time cancer data for early detection and treatment monitoring. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is a promising biomarker. Released by dying cancer cells into the bloodstream, ctDNA reveals genetic changes associated with lung cancer. It aids in early-stage detection and treatment monitoring.
MicroRNAs – Small but Powerful Indicators MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression and are linked to various diseases, including lung cancer. Specific miRNAs could serve as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, aiding in personalized diagnostic tools creation and treatment response assessment.
The Immune System and Immunotherapy Biomarkers Immunotherapy, a game-changer in cancer treatment, benefits lung cancer patients. However, patient response varies. Emerging biomarkers, like tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression, predict immunotherapy response. Tumor mutational burden (TMB), the DNA mutation count in a tumor, could identify potential responders. These biomarkers guide treatment decisions, improving outcomes.
Dr. Raut concludes that the future of lung cancer care lies in harnessing emerging biomarker potential. Liquid biopsies for early detection, miRNA signatures for tailored treatment, and immunotherapy predictors offer hope to patients and their families. Advancements and collaborations among scientists bring us closer to personalized lung cancer management, enhancing patient outcomes and fighting this challenging disease.
