Lung cancer is one of the most
commonly diagnosed cancers in the
world, accounting for approximately
11.6% of all cancer cases. Lung
cancer can be broadly classified
into two main types: small cell
lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small
cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The
classification of lung cancer is
important as it can determine the
treatment options and prognosis. In
this article, we will provide an
overview of small cell lung cancer
and non-small cell lung cancer,
highlighting the differences
between the two.
Small Cell Lung Cancer
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a
highly malignant type of lung
cancer that is characterized by the
rapid growth and spread of cancer
cells. SCLC is typically caused by
smoking, and it accounts for
approximately 10-15% of all lung
cancer cases. SCLC is often
referred to as oat cell carcinoma
due to the small size and shape of
the cancer cells.
SCLC is usually divided into two
stages: limited stage and extensive
stage. Limited stage SCLC means
that the cancer is confined to one
lung and possibly nearby lymph
nodes, while extensive stage SCLC
means that the cancer has spread to
other parts of the body, such as
the liver, bone, or brain.
Symptoms of SCLC include coughing,
shortness of breath, chest pain,
and weight loss. These symptoms may
not appear until the cancer has
advanced to a later stage, which
can make treatment more difficult.
Treatment for SCLC typically
involves a combination of
chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Surgery is rarely used in the
treatment of SCLC because the
cancer cells have usually spread
too far by the time the cancer is
diagnosed.
Prognosis for SCLC is generally
poor, with a five-year survival
rate of less than 7%. However,
early detection and treatment can
improve the chances of survival.
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
is a more common type of lung
cancer, accounting for
approximately 85% of all lung
cancer cases. Unlike SCLC, NSCLC is
not always caused by smoking and
can occur in non-smokers as well.
NSCLC is usually divided into three
main subtypes: adenocarcinoma,
squamous cell carcinoma, and large
cell carcinoma.
Adenocarcinoma is the most common
subtype of NSCLC, accounting for
approximately 40% of all cases.
Adenocarcinoma usually develops in
the outer parts of the lung and can
spread to other parts of the body,
such as the brain, liver, and
bones. Adenocarcinoma is often
associated with a history of
smoking, but it can also occur in
non-smokers.
Squamous cell carcinoma accounts
for approximately 25-30% of all
NSCLC cases. Squamous cell
carcinoma usually develops in the
inner parts of the lung and is
often associated with a history of
smoking.
Large cell carcinoma is a less
common subtype of NSCLC, accounting
for approximately 10-15% of all
cases. Large cell carcinoma can
develop anywhere in the lung and is
often associated with a poor
prognosis.
Symptoms of NSCLC include coughing,
shortness of breath, chest pain,
and weight loss. These symptoms may
not appear until the cancer has
advanced to a later stage, which
can make treatment more difficult.
Treatment for NSCLC depends on the
stage and subtype of the cancer.
Surgery is often used to remove the
cancer if it is confined to the
lung and has not spread to other
parts of the body. Chemotherapy and
radiation therapy may also be used
to shrink the cancer and prevent it
from spreading.
Prognosis for NSCLC varies
depending on the stage and subtype
of the cancer. Early detection and
treatment can improve the chances