Despite advances in treatment, lung cancer remains the top cause of cancer deaths among both men and women. One of the reasons lung cancer is so deadly, according to the Mayo Clinic, is that it doesn't produce symptoms until it is in later stages. The last stage is stage 4, in which the cancer has spread to other areas of the body. Once it has reached this stage, treatment options are limited.
Chemotherapy
Lung cancer that has spread throughout the body is usually treated with chemotherapy, as long as the patient is healthy enough to tolerate the side effects. According to cancer.org, the most commonly used drugs are Avastin and Erbitux (see Resources below).
Radiation
Lung cancer that has spread to only one other organ, such as the brain, can sometimes be treated with radiation therapy. Radiation is also an option for people who cannot tolerate surgery or chemotherapy.
Surgery
Like radiation therapy, surgery is of limited use for stage 4 lung cancer patients. Surgery is also an option when the cancer has spread to only one other organ.
Other Treatments
Cryosurgery, a treatment that freezes and destroys cancer tissue, may be used to control symptoms in stage 4 lung cancer patients.
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