Updated November 17, 2014.
Stage 0 non-small cell lung cancer, also known as carcinoma in situ, is the earliest stage at which lung cancer can usually be detected. Lung cancer is rarely found at this stage, and when it is, it is often an incidental finding when testing is done for some other reason. In theory, lung cancer should be completely curable at this stage. That said, many people with stage 0 lung cancer have or develop second primary cancers, and learning about cancer prevention is an important part of treatment.
Definition of Stage 0 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Stage 0 non-small cell lung cancer, defines a tumor that is present in only a few layers of cells, and has not grown beyond the inner lining of the lungs. Stage 0 (carcinoma in situ) is considered non-invasive, meaning at this stage it is not yet capable of spreading to other regions.Oncologists use the TNM system to further define the stages of lung cancer, with T representing tumor size, N indicating the presence of lymph nodes that contain cancer cells, and M standing for metastases (spread of tumor to the other lung or distant regions in the body.
According to the TNM system, Stage 0 lung cancer is defined as:
- Tis, N0, M0 – Meaning the tumor is in situ (present in only the cells in which it started and has not spread to nearby tissues), and has not spread to any lymph nodes or distant regions of the body).
Symptoms
Stage 0 lung cancer is very small, and should have minimal, if any, symptoms. Since it is often found “accidentally,” during testing, whatever symptoms prompted testing in the first place are often present.
These might include a persistent cough, shortness of breath, pain in the chest, back, or shoulders, or general symptoms such as fatigue.
Treatment
The treatment of choice for stage 0 lung cancer is surgery. Radiation or chemotherapy are not usually used. Three types of surgery are commonly performed for lung cancer, and, depending on the location of the tumor, one of the less invasive types of surgery (for example a wedge resection) can often be performed. Clinical trials are in progress looking at still less invasive procedures to treat stage 0 lung cancer, such as photodynamic therapy or brachytherapy.
Prognosis
Since stage 0 lung cancer is by definition non-invasive, it should in theory be curable with surgery. Unfortunately, many people with stage 0 lung cancer have second primary cancers, and the prognosis depends on the stage of the more advanced cancer. Individuals with stage 0 lung cancer are also at risk of developing another lung cancer in the future.
How Can I Help Myself
Studies suggest that learning as much as you can about your cancer improves your outcome. Ask questions. Talk to your doctor about clinical trials that may be appropriate for you. Consider joining a support group. Ask for and allow your loved ones to help. A diagnosis of lung cancer at this early stage is a great opportunity to make changes that might give you a healthier future. Look at your lifestyle and see if you can do anything to lower your risk of developing lung cancer again:- If you smoke, quit
- Test your home for radon
- Evaluate any environment exposures that might increase your risk
- Evaluate your workplace for any occupational exposures you should address
- Choose a healthy diet that may lower lung cancer risk
- Exercise
Sources:
American Cancer Society. ACS Detailed Guide: Lung Cancer – Non-Small Cell. Treatment Choices by Stage for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Stage 0. Updated 11/10/14. http://www.cancer.org/cancer/lungcancer-non-smallcell/detailedguide/non-small-cell-lung-cancer-treating-by-stage
American Joint Committee on Cancer. Lung Cancer Staging. 7th Edition. Accessed 09/20/14. https://cancerstaging.org/references-tools/quickreferences/Documents/LungMedium.pdf
National Cancer Institute. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment (PDQ). Stage 0 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment. Updated 08/06/14. http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/treatment/non-small-cell-lung/healthprofessional/page6
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