Life Expectancy for Stage 3B Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma Patients

The life expectancy of a patient with stage IIIB squamous cell lung carcinoma can vary significantly based on several factors, including the patient's overall health, response to treatment, and specific characteristics of the cancer. Generally, stage IIIB lung cancer is considered advanced and may have a poorer prognosis compared

Hello Dr.
Chen, my father, who is 81 years old, has been diagnosed with stage 3B squamous cell lung carcinoma.
Initially, he experienced some relief with targeted therapy, but later he developed severe diarrhea, became extremely weak, and lost weight, so I decided to discontinue the medication.
He is currently not undergoing chemotherapy.
(After starting the targeted therapy, he developed vocal cord paralysis a week later.
Although the literature suggests this is due to cancer metastasis, I suspect it might be a side effect of the targeted therapy.)
I have two questions:
1.
Given the above situation, if we want to shrink the tumor but do not want my family to suffer too much, what recommendations do you have?
2.
If we do not pursue aggressive treatment, how long can he expect to live? Thank you.

cindy, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/04/26

Dr. Chen Junyi reply Oncology

1.
Radiation therapy can be considered.
2.
Approximately 6 to 9 months.

Reply Date: 2010/04/26

More Info

Stage 3B lung squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a challenging diagnosis, particularly for an 81-year-old patient. The prognosis and treatment options can vary significantly based on the patient's overall health, the extent of the disease, and how well they respond to treatments.
1. Treatment Options: Given your father's condition, where he has experienced severe side effects from targeted therapy, it is crucial to consider alternative treatment options that may be less taxing on his body. One potential option is palliative care, which focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life rather than attempting to cure the disease. This can include:
- Radiation Therapy: This can be effective in shrinking tumors and alleviating symptoms such as pain or obstruction caused by the tumor. It can be localized to the tumor site, which may help minimize side effects compared to systemic treatments like chemotherapy.

- Supportive Care: Managing symptoms such as nausea, pain, and fatigue is essential. Medications can help alleviate these symptoms, and nutritional support may also be beneficial, especially since weight loss is a concern.

- Clinical Trials: Depending on the specifics of your father's case, he may be eligible for clinical trials that explore new treatments, including novel therapies that may have fewer side effects.

- Consultation with a Palliative Care Specialist: Engaging a palliative care team can provide comprehensive support, focusing on both physical and emotional well-being.

2. Life Expectancy: The prognosis for Stage 3B lung SCC can be variable. Generally, the median survival for patients with this stage of lung cancer is approximately 12 to 18 months with aggressive treatment, but this can be shorter for older patients or those with significant comorbidities. If no active treatment is pursued, life expectancy may be significantly reduced, potentially ranging from a few months to a year, depending on the individual’s overall health and the aggressiveness of the cancer.

It's important to have open discussions with your father's healthcare team about his goals of care. If the focus is on comfort and quality of life, then palliative care may be the most appropriate path forward.
In conclusion, while the diagnosis of Stage 3B lung squamous cell carcinoma is serious, there are treatment options available that can help manage symptoms and potentially prolong life. The emphasis should be on what aligns best with your father's wishes and quality of life. Regular follow-ups with his oncologist will be essential to monitor his condition and adjust treatment plans as necessary.

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