shortness of breath in adults (SOB) (breathlessness) - NICE urgent cancer referral guidance
Last reviewed 01/2018
Shortness of Breath
| Symptom and Specific Features | Possible Cancer | Recommendation |
| Shortness of breath (unexplained), 40 and over, ever smoked | Lung | Offer a chest X-ray |
| Symptom and Specific Features | Possible Cancer | Recommendation |
| Shortness of breath (unexplained), 40 and over, and exposed to asbestos | Mesothelioma | Offer a chest Xray |
| Symptom and Specific Features | Possible Cancer | Recommendation |
| Shortness of breath with cough or fatigue or chest pain or weight loss or appetite loss (unexplained), 40 and over | Lung or mesothelioma | Offer a chest Xray |
| Symptom and Specific Features | Possible Cancer | Recommendation |
| Shortness of breath with unexplained lymphadenopathy in adults | Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma or Hodgkin's lymphoma | Consider a suspected cancer pathway referral (for an appointment within 2 weeks). When considering referral, take into account any associated symptoms |
| Symptom and Specific Features | Possible Cancer | Recommendation |
| Shortness of breath with unexplained splenomegaly in adults | Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma | Consider a suspected cancer pathway referral (for an appointment within 2 weeks). When considering referral, take into account any associated symptoms |
Reference:
NICE urgent cancer referral guidance
NICE urgent cancer referral guidance (guidelines with respect to presenting symptoms and signs)