What's New in Pulmonary Care? - 9/19/23 - Lung Cancer Living Room

D. Kyle Hogarth, MD of the University of Chicago joins us for tonight's Lung Cancer Living Room about the latest updates in pulmonary care!

In another enlightening episode of "Lung Cancer Living Room," Danielle Hicks, Chief Patient Officer of GO2 for Lung Cancer, engages Dr. Kyle Hogarth, a distinguished pulmonologist, in a comprehensive discussion centered around the latest advancements in lung nodules, pulmonology and cancer care.

Starting off, the duo dives into the transformative procedure of bronchoscopy. With the ability to access tumors regardless of their location in the lungs, this game-changing technique allows for the extraction of nodes from anywhere within the chest cavity. Dr. Hogarth highlights the exciting emergence of robotic platforms in the realm of bronchoscopy, which resemble video game controllers in their operation, offering unparalleled precision in maneuvering through the intricate landscape of the lungs.

Dr. Hogarth passionately discusses the indispensable role of quality CT scans in the early diagnosis and management of lung cancer. He emphasizes the pivotal distinction between a mediocre and a high-quality CT scan providing 300 plus images, underscoring the nuanced details the latter can reveal, which can be paramount for accurate diagnosis and treatment. He also underscores the unmatched value of PET scans, which offer a more detailed view, helping discern active tumor tissues from scar tissues and guiding treatment strategies.

Beyond just procedures, they delve into the realm of biomarker testing. Underlining its paramount importance, they discuss how lung cancer has metamorphosed into a disease that demands personalized treatment strategies tailored to the unique attributes of individual tumors. This adaptability and precise care can significantly shape a patient's entire treatment trajectory.

Shifting gears, Dr. Hogarth shares insights into the world of clinical trials, emphasizing their pivotal role in the progression of lung cancer treatment. Describing the aspiration to cure lung cancer internally without resorting to surgeries or radiation, he highlights the challenges faced in ensuring the safety and efficacy of new treatments. The emergence of therapies designed to prime the immune system holds promise, especially given tumors' ability to evade the immune system's detection. Dr. Hogarth brings forth the notable progress in the domain of lung cancer treatment, with discussions about therapeutic advancements that were unheard of a mere decade ago. He underscores the vital contribution of volunteers in these trials and discusses the different phases of trials, from the experimental to those almost certain to work.

Danielle and Dr. Hogarth also broach the subject of the changing perception of lung cancer. No longer viewed as a monolithic disease, it's now understood as a series of rare cancers, each requiring its distinct treatment strategy. They stress the significance of a multidisciplinary care team in ensuring patients receive the most comprehensive treatment available. Dr. Hogarth candidly admits the challenge for individual specialists to keep up with every new development across disciplines, further emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach.

The discussion culminates with a poignant reflection on the lived experiences of patients. Dr. Hogarth acknowledges that many individuals with lung cancer grapple with compromised lung functions and a sense of learned helplessness. However, he ardently believes in the potential for these patients to continue engaging in activities that bring them joy and happiness. The supportive role of a pulmonologist in facilitating this quality of life is underscored, emphasizing that patients should never feel limited without first exploring all possible avenues of care.