Types of Lung Cancer

Lung Cancer Treatment | Lung Cancer Information

Small cell carcinoma creates its own hormones, which then can alter body chemistry. SCLC can spread itself widely throughout the body, and for this action, management of the illness has to include drugs to kill the widespread disease.

Small cell lung cancer frequently starts in the bronchi towards the center of the lungs. Each cell is small then multiplies quickly, forming large tumors, and spreading to lymph nodes and other organs such as the bones, brain, adrenal glands, and liver. It is very unusual for someone who has never smoked to have small cell lung cancer. Small cell lung cancer is almost always caused by smoking.

Non-small Cell Lung Cancer - Non-small cell lung cancer generally grows and spreads more gradually but is more widespread than small cell lung cancer. The remaining lung cancers are all non-small cell (NSCLC). There are three sub-types of NSCLC, in which these cells fluctuate in size, shape, and chemical make-up.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma - About 25% - 30% of all lung cancers are Squamous cell carcinomas. They are linked with a history of smoking and tend to be found centrally, near a bronchus. Squamous cell carcinoma. Generally starting in the bronchi but does not usually spread as rapidly as other lung cancers.

Adenocarcinoma - More commonly found in women than in men. This type of cancer accounts for about 40% of lung cancers and typically found in the outer region of the lung.

Large-cell Undifferentiated Carcinoma - Appearing in any part of the lung. This type tends to grow and spread quickly throughout the body resulting in a poor prediction of recovery. This type of cancer accounts for about 10% - 15% of reported lung cancer cases. Large cell carcinoma is any lung tumor that cannot be classified as a lung cancer type.