Malignant tracheal tumors: a review of current diagnostic and management strategies

Publication Date

2015

Journal Title

Curr Opin Pulm Med

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This article reviews the current literature for the purpose of developing a practical approach for the diagnosis and management of primary tracheal tumors. RECENT FINDINGS: Because of nonspecific symptoms, tracheal tumors remain a diagnostic challenge. Currently available management strategies are not being optimally utilized due to lack of physician awareness and knowledge. The use of newer diagnostic modalities has increased diagnostic accuracy resulting in earlier detection in recent years. This review describes currently available diagnostic modalities along with relatively newer ones such as virtual bronchoscopy, anatomic Optical Coherence Tomography, spectroscopic techniques, and endobronchial ultrasonography. We will review and discuss management strategies including surgical options, adjuvant therapies, and interventional pulmonary techniques including their role in palliation. SUMMARY: Early detection along with improved surgical and interventional pulmonology techniques has led to a decline in the death rates from tracheal cancer in recent years. However, further studies are required to define the role of chemotherapeutic agents, combination therapies, and novel techniques such as tracheal transplantation, in the management of primary tracheal tumors. More robust evidence-based studies are needed to provide evidence for clinical practice guidelines for the treatment of primary tracheal tumors.

Volume Number

21

Issue Number

4

Pages

322-6

Document Type

Article

EPub Date

2015/05/16

Status

Faculty

Facility

School of Medicine

Primary Department

Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine

PMID

25978628

DOI

10.1097/mcp.0000000000000181

For the public and Northwell Health campuses

Share

COinS