Clinical and Radiological Profile of Primary Lung Malignancies Attending Tertiary Care Center

Abstract

Background: Primary lung malignancies are among the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Accurate clinical and radiological profiling is critical for early diagnosis, staging, and management of these malignancies.

Aims & objectives: This study aims to analyze the demographic characteristics, clinical presentation, radiological features, histopathological types, and treatment outcomes of patients diagnosed with primary lung malignancies at a tertiary care center.

Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted over a two-year period at Tertiary Care Center. Patients with histologically confirmed primary lung cancer were included. Data regarding demographics, clinical presentation, smoking status, radiological findings from chest X-rays and computed tomography (CT), histopathology, and treatment modalities were collected and analyzed.

Results: A total of 150 patients were enrolled. The mean age was 62.5 ± 10.2 years, with a male predominance (78%). The most common presenting symptoms were cough (68%), hemoptysis (40%), and weight loss (55%). Smoking was reported in 75% of patients. Radiological findings predominantly included mass lesions (70%), consolidation (15%), and pleural effusions (10%). CT imaging revealed that tumors were mostly located in the right upper lobe (35%) and left upper lobe (30%). Histopathologically, adenocarcinoma was the most frequent subtype (45%), followed by squamous cell carcinoma (35%) and small cell lung carcinoma (15%). Treatment strategies varied from surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, to combined modality therapy. Five-year survival was highest in surgically treated early-stage adenocarcinoma patients.

Conclusion: Primary lung malignancies present with diverse clinical and radiological profiles. Early diagnosis supported by detailed radiological evaluation is crucial for optimizing management. Smoking remains a significant risk factor. Multimodal treatment improves outcomes, especially in early-stage disease.

Keywords: Primary Lung Malignancies, Tertiary Care Center, bronchogenic carcinoma