Adenocarcinoma (Lung)

Adenocarcinoma of the lung is a type of lung cancer that starts in the cells lining the airways and produces mucus. It primarily affects the respiratory system, making it harder to breathe and causing symptoms like a persistent cough, chest pain, and sometimes coughing up blood. This cancer can grow and spread to other parts of the body, which can lead to serious health problems. It is the most common form of lung cancer in both smokers and non-smokers. Early stages may not cause symptoms, but as it progresses, it can significantly impact lung function and overall health. Diagnosis often involves imaging and tissue sampling to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

Adenocarcinoma of the lung is a malignant neoplasm arising from the glandular epithelial cells of the lung, typically located in the peripheral lung fields. It is the most common subtype of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and is strongly associated with smoking, although it also occurs in non-smokers. The tumor is characterized by the formation of glandular structures and production of mucin. Molecular alterations frequently involve mutations in genes such as EGFR, KRAS, and ALK rearrangements, which have implications for targeted therapy. Clinically, it presents with symptoms related to local invasion or metastasis, including cough, dyspnea, and weight loss. It is significant due to its aggressive nature and potential for early metastasis, often to the brain, bones, and adrenal glands.