Causes and risk factors
The cells undergo an abnormal and uncontrolled proliferation. Eventually, these cluster of cells lead to formation of a tumor or mass either in the lining of the trachea or in its lumen. The most common types of cancers are squamous cell carcinoma and adenoid cystic carcinoma. Cancer primarily originating in trachea is rare. Most of the times, affection of trachea is due to tumors that metastasize from other areas. Localized invasion from larynx, esophagus, thyroid, and neck cancers are commonly seen. What causes this abnormal growth is still a mystery. However, tedious research and study of various cases has laid down certain risk factors which can predispose a person to cancer. Genetic factors head the list. Unlike many other cancers, abnormal mutation in the genes stimulate the cells to undergo an abnormal proliferation. Smoking is the major predisposing factor causing tracheal cancer. Hemangioma which can spread from the face to the neck is another contributing factor.
Clinical presentation:
Indolent growth of abnormal cells in its initial stage does not pose any noticeable signs and symptoms in the body, hence the patient remains asymptomatic for long. Over a period of time, the patient can come up with other health issues. On most of the occasions, the patient usually comes up with vague symptoms like body ache, fatigue, and tenderness all over the body. A noticeable change in weight is complained by the patient or is brought into notice by the loved ones. Breathing problem is the foremost symptom seen. There occurs shortness of breath and noisy breathing is seen. Wheezes are heard. Hoarseness of voice, difficulty in swallowing, and chronic cough are the other associated symptoms seen. Cough can be productive with bloody expectoration. An individual becomes more susceptible to upper respiratory tract infections. Metastasis can lead to various other symptoms pertaining to that system or organ.
Investigations:
Taking into consideration the complaints mentioned by the patient, a physical examination of the patient is carried out. Tracheal cancer is usually difficult to diagnose. On being suspected with some strange symptoms, x-ray, bronchoscopy, and CT scan along with pulmonary function test is advised. If any abnormal growth or mass is detected, a biopsy is done which will help to differentiate between the benign and neoplastic cells. If the cancerous growth is confirmed, certain other set of investigations like routine blood test and blood markers for cancer are diagnostic. A complete scan (PET scan) is the most essential investigative tool mandatorily advised in all cancerous conditions.
Treatment:
Staging of cancer, (i.e., advancement and spread of pathology) is the essential tool for formulating the treatment plan. Surgical intervention aims either for cure or is used just as a palliative method. If any abnormal mass is detected, surgical excision of the tumor along with removal of the cancerous part can be done. A tracheobronchial airway stent can be implanted. Laser therapy can also be adopted. Radiation treatment along with administration of chemotherapeutic agents is done in advanced cases.
Facts and figures:
The incidence of tracheal cancer is 1 in 1000 cases of all cancers.
