1st January 2006
American College of Chest Physicians - Medical Specialty Society
Summary,

GUIDELINE OBJECTIVE(S)

To review the scientific evidence on cough associated with tumors in the lungs

TARGET POPULATION

Patients with cough due to lung tumors

INTERVENTIONS AND PRACTICES CONSIDERED

Diagnosis

1. Chest radiograph
2. Bronchoscopy

Treatment

1. Surgical removal of the tumor (Stage I and II non-small lung cancer [NSCLC])
2. External beam radiation and/or chemotherapy(Stage III and IV NSCLC)
3. Chemotherapy (e.g., gemcitabine)
4. Endobronchial therapy
5. Cough suppressants, such as dihydrocodeine and hydrocodone

MAJOR OUTCOMES CONSIDERED

* Positive and negative predictive value of diagnostic tests
* Resolution of symptoms (including cough)