Conditions Diagnosed and Treated
Learn more about the wide range of lung-related conditions we specialize in managing. Led by Josh Melamed, our practice is dedicated to accurately diagnosing and treating both cancerous and non-cancerous conditions affecting the lungs and chest cavity. From early-stage lung nodules and tumors to complex cases of lung cancer, pleural disease, and airway disorders, we use the latest diagnostic tools and treatment approaches to deliver personalized, compassionate care.
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the lungs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably, forming tumors that interfere with normal lung function. It is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide and is primarily linked to smoking, though non-smokers can also develop the disease due to factors like exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, and genetic mutations. There are two main types: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which is the most common, and small cell lung cancer (SCLC), which is more aggressive and spreads quickly. Symptoms may include persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, and unexplained weight loss.
Esophageal Cancer
Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the esophagus, the long, hollow tube that connects the throat to the stomach and helps move food and liquids for digestion. It occurs when abnormal cells in the lining of the esophagus grow uncontrollably, forming tumors that can obstruct swallowing and spread to other parts of the body. The two main types are squamous cell carcinoma, which typically develops in the upper and middle parts of the esophagus, and adenocarcinoma, which usually occurs in the lower part near the stomach. Risk factors include smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, chronic acid reflux (which can lead to Barrett’s esophagus), obesity, and a diet low in fruits and vegetables. Symptoms often include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, unintended weight loss, and persistent heartburn.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that develops in the mesothelium, the protective lining that covers the lungs, abdomen, heart, and other internal organs. It is primarily caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos, a mineral once widely used in construction, insulation, and industrial materials. The most common type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs and can cause symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and persistent cough. Other forms include peritoneal mesothelioma, which affects the abdomen, and rarer types that impact the heart (pericardial) or testicles. Because mesothelioma has a long latency period, symptoms may not appear until decades after exposure, making early diagnosis difficult.
Lung Nodules
Lung nodules are small, round or oval-shaped growths in the lung that are usually detected on a chest X-ray or CT scan. They are typically less than 3 centimeters in diameter and can be caused by various factors, including infections, inflammation, or benign tumors. While most lung nodules are noncancerous (benign), some can be an early sign of lung cancer, especially if they grow over time. Risk factors such as smoking history, exposure to harmful substances like asbestos, or a family history of lung cancer may increase the likelihood of a nodule being malignant. In many cases, lung nodules cause no symptoms and are only found incidentally during imaging tests for other health concerns. Further evaluation, such as follow-up scans or a biopsy, may be necessary to determine whether a nodule is cancerous and requires treatment. Regular monitoring is often recommended to track any changes in size or appearance.
Pleural Disease
Pleural disease refers to a group of conditions that affect the pleura, the thin membrane that lines the lungs and the inside of the chest cavity. This membrane produces a small amount of fluid to help the lungs move smoothly during breathing. Pleural diseases can include pleuritis (inflammation of the pleura), pleural effusion (excess fluid buildup in the pleural space), pneumothorax (air trapped between the lung and chest wall), and pleural thickening (scarring or fibrosis of the pleura). These conditions can be caused by infections, lung diseases, cancer, autoimmune disorders, or exposure to harmful substances like asbestos. Symptoms may include chest pain, difficulty breathing, coughing, and a feeling of tightness in the chest.
Neoplasms and Tumors of the Mediastinum
Neoplasms and tumors of the mediastinum refer to abnormal growths that develop in the mediastinum, the central compartment of the chest located between the lungs. This area contains critical structures such as the heart, esophagus, trachea, thymus, and major blood vessels. Tumors in the mediastinum can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and may arise from different tissues, including the thymus, lymph nodes, nerves, or connective tissues. Common types include thymomas, lymphomas, germ cell tumors, and neurogenic tumors. Symptoms vary depending on the size and location of the tumor but may include chest pain, cough, shortness of breath, hoarseness, and difficulty swallowing. Some tumors may be asymptomatic and only discovered incidentally during imaging tests. Diagnosis typically involves CT scans, MRIs, and biopsies, while treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapies, depending on the tumor type and stage. Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes.
Thymoma
Thymoma is a rare type of tumor that originates in the thymus, a small gland located in the mediastinum, the space between the lungs. The thymus plays a crucial role in the immune system, particularly during childhood, by producing T-cells that help fight infections. Thymomas are typically slow-growing and often benign, but some can be malignant and spread to surrounding tissues. While the exact cause of thymoma is unknown, it has been linked to autoimmune diseases such as myasthenia gravis. Symptoms may include chest pain, cough, shortness of breath, or difficulty swallowing, though some cases are asymptomatic and detected incidentally during imaging tests. Diagnosis usually involves CT scans, biopsies, and blood tests.
Thymic Disease
Thymic disease refers to a range of conditions that affect the thymus, a small gland located in the mediastinum that plays a vital role in the immune system by producing T-cells, which help fight infections. Thymic diseases can include thymomas (tumors of the thymus), thymic carcinoma (a more aggressive cancerous tumor), thymic cysts, and autoimmune disorders linked to thymic dysfunction, such as myasthenia gravis. While some thymic diseases, like benign thymomas, may not cause symptoms, others can lead to chest pain, cough, shortness of breath, muscle weakness, or difficulty swallowing. Diagnosis often involves imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs, blood tests, and sometimes biopsies.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) is a group of disorders caused by the compression of nerves, arteries, or veins in the thoracic outlet, the narrow space between the collarbone and first rib. This condition can result from anatomical abnormalities, repetitive movements, trauma, or poor posture, leading to three main types: neurogenic TOS (affecting nerves), venous TOS (affecting veins), and arterial TOS (affecting arteries). Symptoms vary depending on the type but may include pain, numbness, and tingling in the neck, shoulder, and arm, as well as swelling or discoloration of the affected limb. Diagnosis typically involves physical exams, imaging tests, and nerve conduction studies.
Hiatal and Paraesophageal Hernias
Hiatal and paraesophageal hernias are conditions in which part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach moves through the hiatus, an opening in the diaphragm where the esophagus passes. This can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), causing symptoms like heartburn, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing. A paraesophageal hernia, a less common but more serious type, occurs when part of the stomach squeezes next to the esophagus, potentially leading to complications like reduced blood supply (strangulation) and severe pain. Both types can be diagnosed through imaging tests such as X-rays or endoscopy.
Esophageal Diverticulum
An esophageal diverticulum is a pouch or sac that forms in the wall of the esophagus, the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. These diverticula occur when a weak spot in the esophageal wall bulges out, often due to increased pressure or muscle contractions. The condition can be classified into different types, with Zenker's diverticulum being the most common, which forms in the upper part of the esophagus. Symptoms may include difficulty swallowing, regurgitation of food, coughing, bad breath, or a sensation of something stuck in the throat. The diverticulum can trap food, leading to discomfort and potential infection. Diagnosis is typically made using imaging tests like a barium swallow or endoscopy.
Chest Wall Tumors and Masses
Chest wall tumors and masses are abnormal growths that develop in the tissues of the chest wall, which includes the ribs, muscles, and other structures surrounding the lungs and heart. These tumors can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous), and may arise from various tissues such as bone, cartilage, fat, or muscle. Common types include chondrosarcomas (cancer of the cartilage), osteosarcomas (cancer of the bone), and lipomas (benign fatty tumors). Symptoms depend on the tumor's size, location, and whether it presses on nearby organs, and may include pain, swelling, difficulty breathing, or a noticeable lump on the chest. Diagnosis typically involves physical examination, imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs, and sometimes biopsies to determine whether the tumor is benign or malignant.
Achalasia
Achalasia is a rare disorder of the esophagus that affects its ability to move food and liquids into the stomach. It occurs when the muscles of the lower esophagus fail to relax properly, preventing the esophagus from emptying efficiently. This dysfunction is caused by the loss of nerve cells in the esophagus, leading to difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), regurgitation of food, chest pain, and weight loss. The exact cause of achalasia is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve an autoimmune response that damages the nerve cells. Over time, the esophagus may become enlarged due to the accumulation of food and liquids. Diagnosis typically involves tests such as esophageal manometry (measuring pressure and muscle function), barium swallow X-rays, and endoscopy.
COPD (Surgical Disease)
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease that causes airflow obstruction, making it difficult to breathe. It primarily includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, conditions often linked to long-term exposure to harmful substances like tobacco smoke, air pollution, and occupational hazards. COPD is characterized by symptoms such as chronic cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, and frequent respiratory infections. Although COPD is typically managed with medications like bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and oxygen therapy, in some cases, surgical interventions may be required. Surgical treatment options include lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS), where damaged areas of the lung are removed to improve breathing, and lung transplantation for patients with advanced disease who do not respond to other treatments.
Pectus Excavatum and Carinatum
Pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum are two types of congenital chest wall deformities that affect the shape of the sternum and rib cage. Pectus excavatum, often referred to as "funnel chest," is characterized by a sunken or depressed sternum, causing the chest to appear concave. This condition can lead to breathing difficulties, chest pain, and, in some cases, heart and lung compression. On the other hand, pectus carinatum, also known as "pigeon chest," involves a protrusion of the sternum, where the chest appears to be pushed outward. While pectus carinatum is generally less likely to cause functional problems than pectus excavatum, it can still lead to cosmetic concerns and, in some cases, respiratory issues. Both conditions are typically diagnosed through physical examination and imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans.
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