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Why does lung cancer still recur even after the surgery has completely removed the tumor?

Apr 15, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Qifeng
Introduction
If lung cancer surgery has completely removed the tumor but recurrence still occurs, it may be because occult lesions or microscopic metastatic lesions were not entirely eliminated during the operation. Recurrence can also happen if adjuvant treatments such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy are not administered after surgery. Additionally, continued smoking, alcohol consumption, or prolonged exposure to ionizing radiation after surgery may contribute to recurrence. Once lung cancer recurs, patients should promptly receive individualized treatment from their physicians.

Lung cancer may recur even after complete surgical removal, which could be due to lack of postoperative consolidation therapy, inadequate daily post-surgery care, or genetic and hereditary factors. The specific reasons are as follows:

1. Lack of postoperative consolidation

Lung cancer is a malignant tumor originating from the bronchial mucosa or glands of the lungs. Surgery is the primary treatment method; however, it may not completely remove hidden lesions or microscopic metastatic disease. Therefore, adjuvant therapies such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy are generally recommended after surgery to consolidate treatment effects. Without such postoperative consolidation, residual microscopic or occult lesions may continue to grow, leading to recurrence.

2. Inadequate postoperative care

After lung cancer surgery, patients typically have weakened immune systems. Smoking, alcohol consumption, and prolonged exposure to ionizing radiation are strongly discouraged. Failure to follow proper postoperative care recommendations may increase the risk of lung cancer recurrence.

3. Genetic and hereditary factors

Clinical evidence and related studies have shown that lung cancer tends to cluster in families and may involve genetic susceptibility. If a patient has immediate family members with a history of lung cancer, even complete surgical removal may not prevent recurrence due to underlying genetic predispositions.

After recurrence, patients should promptly receive individualized treatments as directed by their physicians, including surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and other appropriate interventions.


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