DIAGNOSIS & STAGING
Multidisciplinary Tumor Board
Lung cancer treatment requires collaboration across various medical fields. Pulmonologists, medical oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pathologists, molecular biologists, radiation oncologists, interventional radiologists, oncology nurses, mental health professionals, and other specialized healthcare providers are essential to address the diverse needs of each patient.
The Multidisciplinary Tumor Board convenes a diverse team of healthcare professionals, each bringing unique expertise and skills. Ideally, they are expert professionals well-versed in the latest advancements in lung cancer treatment, with a compassionate approach towards patients, and committed to seamless teamwork aligned with contemporary medical standards.
Lung cancer primary multidisciplinary team
Pulmonologist
Pulmonologists specialize in chronic lung diseases with a higher risk of lung cancer. Their responsibilities include planning the diagnostic and staging processes, assessing lung function, intervening in the treatment of respiratory comorbidities, managing pulmonary toxicity, and providing palliative care.
Medical oncologist
Medical oncologists oversee patients with lung cancer across all stages. They ensure accurate diagnosis and staging for appropriate treatment planning, considering factors such as molecular subtype, disease stage, overall health, comorbidities, and patient preferences. Additionally, they facilitate early access to clinical trials.
Thoracic surgeon
Thoracic surgeons contribute to the diagnosis, staging, and provision of therapeutic and palliative care for lung cancer. They evaluate the resectability of disease lesions, with a preference for minimally invasive techniques to reduce surgical morbidity in early-stage cases.
Radiation oncologist
Radiation oncologists prescribe and administer radiation therapy for therapeutic, preventive, or palliative purposes. They determine dosage, target areas, and organs at risk, ensuring precise delivery of treatment.
Interventional radiologist
Interventional radiologists use advanced imaging modalities to perform diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. They employ imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy, digital angiography, CT scanning, MRI, and PET, to accurately approach treatment targets.
Pathologist
Pathologists process tissue samples, histologically confirm lung cancer suspicions, and conduct additional tests like immunohistochemistry. They prioritize selecting the most suitable tumor sample for early molecular testing to speed up treatment.
Molecular biologist
Molecular biologists, a recent addition to tumor boards, play a crucial role in interpreting molecular tests from tissue and liquid biopsies. Their expertise is vital in understanding targeted therapies, which have shown improved survival rates in lung cancer patients.
Why is the Multidisciplinary Tumor Board significant?
Why is the Multidisciplinary Tumor Board significant?
Lung cancer includes various subtypes with individualized characteristics, influenced by factors like stage, histology, age, comorbidities, symptoms, and patient preferences. Treatment options, including surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy, need collaborative decision-making among specialists.
Because of scientific advancements and treatment developments, lung cancer treatment plans are complex. Each patient requires a tailored approach, often involving a combination of therapies beyond a single discipline.
Research indicates that multidisciplinary care enhances treatment outcomes and survival rates across all disease stages. Furthermore, treatment recommendations align with management guidelines, ensuring more patients receive optimal, evidence-based care.
