Dr Alan SIHOE Dart Loon

Lung cancer is known as the "number one killer" among cancers in Hong Kong. Early diagnosis can significantly improve the cure rate of lung cancer. However, patients often discover lung cancer at the mid or late stage, missing the optimal treatment window.

Lung nodules refer to localized shadows or masses in the lungs with a diameter of less than 3 cm. “Lung nodules” per se is not a disease name. They are often asymptomatic and are usually discovered incidentally during health check-ups or imaging studies. The management of lung nodules is highly individualized. If you discover that you have lung nodules, do not panic. It is advisable to seek assistance from a specialist for evaluation and management as soon as possible.

Possible causes of Mediastinal Masses include lymph node enlargement (resulting from infections, inflammation, autoimmune diseases, or malignant tumours), tumours (such as thymoma, germ cell tumours, and schwannomas), cysts, or other diseases.

Pleural effusion refers to an abnormal buildup of fluid in the pleural cavity. Under normal circumstances, the pleural cavity contains only a small amount of fluid (about 10-20 ml) to lubricate the pleura during respiratory movements. When the fluid volume increases abnormally, it can compress lung tissues, potentially leading to breathing difficulties, chest pain, and other respiratory symptoms.