Steven A. Sandler, M.D.
Board-Certified in
Hematology & Oncology

Telephone Numbers
Office: (847) 933-0875
Fax: (847) 933-0878
Answering Service: (773) 594-7340

Skokie Office
9669 Kenton, Suite 510
Skokie, IL 60076
Map and directions

Chicago Office
7447 W. Talcott Ave., Suite 318
Chicago, IL 60631
Map and directions

Call us at 847-933-0875 or send Dr. Sandler a message via the form below. Please note that this form is for non-emergencies only.

Lung Cancer Information and Treatment

About Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a cancer that forms in tissues of the lung, usually in the cells lining air passages. The two main types are small-cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. These types are diagnosed based on how the cells look under a microscope. Approximately 80 percent of lung cancers are non-small cell lung cancers and the remaining 20 percent are small-cell lung cancers. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death and most cases are caused by tobacco use.

Signs and symptoms may include:

• Prolonged cough, including coughing up blood
• Chest pain
• Fever
• Repeated pneumonia or bronchitis
• Shortness of breath and wheezing
• Difficulty swallowing
  

Lung Cancer Treatment

The treatment of lung cancer depends on the stage of the tumor.  Non-small cell lung cancers are treated according to the stage of the tumor.  The stage 1 and 2 lung cancers are usually treated with surgery.  Sometimes, chemotherapy after surgery is recommended to prevent the tumor from returning.

For stage 3 lung cancer, most patients are treated with a combination of chemotherapy and radiation.  Treatment has improved greatly for stage 3 lung cancer patients.  Some patients will have surgery after receiving chemotherapy and radiation to reduce the size of the tumor

Stage 4 lung cancer can be difficult to treat.  However, there are new medications that are very promising.  This usually involves some chemotherapy, although we do use medicines that target certain lung cancers that do not require the use of chemotherapy. Sandler Cancer Treatment Centers have treated patients with inoperable tumors successfully with the use of target drug therapy.