Prognostic factors in bronchopulmonary neoplasms
Paolini, A.; Tosato, F.; Passaro, U.; Vasapollo, L.
Minerva Chirurgica 47(3-4): 109-114
1992
ISSN/ISBN: 0026-4733 PMID: 1565264 Document Number: 396880
The paper aims to illustrate the current state of knowledge regarding the prognostic factors of lung cancer. The disappointing results obtained using therapeutic modes (an overall 5-year survival rate of 15%), together with the considerable variability of the natural history of lung cancer, should be attributed to a group of prognostic factors, of varying importance, which can be subdivided into three categories: those concerning the characteristics of cancer, those inherent to the patient's conditions and those related to the type of operation. The paper underlines that histotype, TNM staging, the assessment of the nuclear degree and ploidy class play a correct and real prognostic role, and that only surgical treatment, if indicated, can offer a real life expectancy (40% 5-year survival rate in operated patients).