Lung Cancer and Mesothelioma
Cancer refers to an abnormal growth of cells.
Because these cells are abnormal, they interfere
with body function. Since each kind of cancer
is different, each patient will respond differently
to various treatments. What may be right for
one patient may not be recommended for another.
Lung cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer
in the United States.
Approximately 164,000 cases
are diagnosed each year. There are two kinds
of lung cancer – small
cell lung cancer and non-small
cell lung cancer. The name refers to the
appearance of the cells when they are seen under
a microscope. Lung cancer can affect the airways,
the lungs, the lining of the lungs or the chest
cavity.
Mesothelioma is a tumor that starts in the lining of the upper chest and lungs. This lining is called the pleura. While exposure to asbestos places someone at a higher risk, 30 to 50 percent of patients with mesothelioma have no history of exposure to asbetos. Approximately 2,000 to 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed each year.
Penn's Center for Lung Cancer and Related Disorders, directed by Larry R. Kaiser, MD, Chair of Surgery, offers state-of-the-art multidisciplinary care, from your initial evaluation through treatment and follow-up care. The Center for Lung Cancer and Related Disorders includes doctors from many different fields who have recognized expertise in lung cancer.
This includes specialists in thoracic (lung) surgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, pulmonary medicine, diagnostic radiology, and pathology. Nurses, nutritionists, patient service coordinators and psychosocial counselors are also an integral part of your care. Our faculty and staff explain your medical condition and treatment options in understandable terms and will support you and your family throughout your experience.
Location
Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania
3400 Spruce Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Driving Directions
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