PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What symptom is associated with diaphragmatic paralysis in lung cancer?

1. Chest pain

2. Shortness of breath

3. Reduced mobility of the diaphragm

4. Blood in the stool

The correct answer is: Reduced mobility of the diaphragm

Diaphragmatic paralysis in the context of lung cancer results from the involvement of the phrenic nerve, which innervates the diaphragm. When the diaphragm is paralyzed, its ability to contract and relax effectively during respiration is impaired. This leads to reduced mobility of the diaphragm, which can be observed through physical examination or imaging studies. In patients with lung cancer, the tumor may invade or exert pressure on surrounding structures, including the phrenic nerve. When this nerve is affected, it results in a lack of movement of the diaphragm, which is crucial for normal breathing. As a result, the diaphragm may fail to move downward during inhalation, leading to diminished lung ventilation and subsequent respiratory symptoms. While symptoms like shortness of breath and chest pain may be present due to various complications or associated conditions in lung cancer, the specific indicator of diaphragmatic paralysis is the reduced mobility of the diaphragm itself. This reduced movement is a direct manifestation of the paralysis, which differentiates it from other respiratory symptoms or issues that may arise from lung cancer.