Surgeons’ assessment of symptoms suggesting extrathoracic metastases in patients with lung cancer∗∗The members of the Canadian Lung Oncology Group are listed in Appendix 1.

摘要: Abstract Background . In patients with apparently operable non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), clinicians often omit investigation for M disease in asymptomatic patients. Previous investigations have not specified detail what is meant by "symptomatic," and this could differ between surgeons. We investigated the extent to which surgeons' criteria presence of symptoms. Methods Participating surgeons from seven centers, enrolled they judged "asymptomatic" a randomized trial investigational strategies NSCLC. Patients completed structured questionnaire describing symptoms central nervous system (CNS). 685 patients, we documented CNS symptom recurrence after resectional surgery over 1 year follow-up. Results Two centers only without even mildest Three took an intermediate approach, occasionally classifying mild as thus enrolling them trial. classified appreciable number minimal symptoms, more than "asymptomatic." were likely subsequently present metastases. Conclusions Thoracic their ideas may constitute disease. results that suggest are surgery.