Bronchoalveolar carcinoma--also known as bronchioalveolar carcinoma, or BAC--is one of the rarest types of lung cancer. This form of lung cancer occurs most often in a specific subset of the population, and while early treatment can be effective, most individuals suffering from the disease do not have a good long-term prognosis.
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Definition
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Bronchoalveolar carcinoma is a malignant form of lung cancer that grows and proliferates within the alveolar airways of the lungs. It is one of the few forms of cancer that does not have a benign type: Every occurence of bronchoalveolar carcinoma is considered malignant. This form of lung cancer is most common in nonsmoking middle-aged women, particularly Asian women.
Causes
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While the exact cause of bronchoalveolar carcinoma is unknown, medical researchers believe that exposure to toxic substances is the main contributing factor. Asbestos and radon are two of these potentially lung-cancer-causing substances. Certain viruses are also thought to possibly contribute to bronchoalveolar carcinoma development.
Symptoms
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Bronchoalveolar carcinoma sufferers display a number of characteristic symptoms, including: weakness; fatigue; a severe and/or persistent cough, often accompanied by bloody mucus; weight loss; shortness of breath; and chest pain.
Treatment
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Bronchoalveolar carcinoma, like most other types of lung cancer, is generally treated in one of three ways: chemotherapy, radiation therapy or surgery. A surgery in which a portion, or lobe, of the lung is removed is usually the most effective, but because of the aggressive nature of this form of lung cancer, it is extremely difficult to prevent new tumors from forming.
Prognosis
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The prognosis for patients with bronchoalveolar carcinoma is poor. This form of cancer spreads throughout the alveolar airways rapidly, and although surgery and other forms of treatment may stall its progression for a time, the long-term chance of surviving the disease is slim.
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