Early diagnosis saves Bengaluru man’s life with lung cancer through advanced procedures

Bangalore, 12 February, 2025: When 52-year-old Rahul (name altered), a non-smoker and fitness
enthusiast, started experiencing a persistent cough, he initially thought it was a seasonal allergy. But
after months, the cough persisted, and he noticed breathlessness while climbing stairs. A CT scan
showed a localised lesion in the right upper lobe of his lung, raising concerns that something more
serious could be happening.

This discovery led to a series of advanced diagnostic procedures that ultimately saved Rahul’s life by
allowing early, precise diagnosis and timely treatment. Biopsy results confirmed the presence of
non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Though the news was difficult to process, the early discovery
offered a hopeful outlook. However, a critical next step remained – staging the cancer to determine
if it had spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body.

Under the expert guidance of the team at Aster RV Hospital, led by Dr. Pavan Yadav, Lead
Consultant – Interventional Pulmonology & Lung Transplantation, an EBUS bronchoscope,
equipped with a miniature ultrasound probe, was inserted into Rahul’s airways under sedation. It
allowed the pulmonologist to see deeper structures, including the lymph nodes surrounding his
breathing tubes, which are not visible with regular bronchoscopy.

The results from Rahul’s biopsy diagnosed his cancer as early-stage localised lung cancer, meaning it
was still confined without any spread. Because of the early diagnosis and precise staging using
bronchoscopy and EBUS, Rahul underwent a successful surgical resection (removal of the affected
part of the lung).

Dr. Pavan Yadav, Lead Consultant – Interventional Pulmonology & Lung Transplantation said,
“Early diagnosis is the key to saving lives, especially when it comes to lung cancer. When we
detected the Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) in its earliest stage, the patient’s chances of
survival increased exponentially. Thanks to advanced diagnostic procedures and proactive care, we
were able to implement a quick treatment plan, using the EBUS bronchoscope with a miniature
ultrasound probe. It’s moments like this that remind us why early detection is critical. Had we waited
for symptoms to appear, it might have been too late.”

By identifying and treating the disease in its earliest stages, the Aster RV team has demonstrated
that lung cancer is not only treatable but also potentially curable when detected early. The success
of this initiative highlights the importance of routine screenings and early intervention. Aster RV
hospital remains committed to providing the highest quality of care to the patients.