The difference between solitary and multiple lung adenocarcinoma

Lung adenocarcinoma differs in terms of lesion number, extent of spread, pathogenesis, treatment options, and prognosis between solitary and multiple forms. Understanding these differences helps guide precise diagnosis and treatment strategies. If symptoms such as cough, hemoptysis (coughing up blood), or chest pain occur, prompt medical evaluation at a qualified hospital is essential.

1. Difference in Lesion Number: Solitary lung adenocarcinoma refers to a single isolated lesion in the lung, with relatively clear boundaries and no other metastatic lesions. Multiple lung adenocarcinoma involves two or more independent lesions, which may be located in the same or both lungs.

2. Difference in Extent of Spread: Solitary lung adenocarcinoma typically occurs in the early stages of disease, with cancer cells not widely disseminated and limited local invasion. In contrast, multiple lung adenocarcinoma often involves lymph node or hematogenous (blood-borne) metastasis, indicating broader dissemination and frequently representing advanced-stage disease.

3. Difference in Pathogenesis: Solitary lung adenocarcinoma usually arises from gene mutations in epithelial cells of localized lung tissue, leading to confined tumor growth. Multiple lung adenocarcinoma may originate from multiple primary sites (multicentric origin) or result from metastasis of a single primary lesion, reflecting a more complex pathogenesis.

4. Difference in Treatment Approaches: For solitary lung adenocarcinoma, surgical resection is the preferred option if criteria are met, followed by adjuvant chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or targeted therapy. In contrast, multiple lung adenocarcinoma is primarily managed with systemic therapies such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy, with surgery rarely used for curative intent.

5. Difference in Prognosis: With early intervention, solitary lung adenocarcinoma has a higher 5-year survival rate and a relatively lower risk of recurrence. Multiple lung adenocarcinoma, due to its extensive spread and greater treatment challenges, generally carries a poorer prognosis, with higher rates of recurrence and mortality.

In daily life, individuals should quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke, minimize exposure to dust and toxic chemicals, maintain regular作息 (sleep patterns) to strengthen immunity, undergo regular pulmonary CT screenings, seek timely medical care when symptoms arise, and follow a balanced diet rich in high-quality protein and vitamins to support overall health.