Small cell lung cancer
About Small cell lung cancer
Small cell lung cancer is a fast growing cancer and is more aggressive than non-small cell lung cancer, the other major type of lung cancer. There are two types of small cell lung cancer depending on the type of cells involved: small cell carcinoma (oat cell cancer), and combined small cell carcinoma. Most cases of this cancer are related to cigarette smoking. This cancer is very difficult to treat and the survival rate at 5 years after the diagnosis ranges from 2% to 31% depending on the size of the cancer and whether it has spread to other areas of the body (metastasize).Symptoms
Cough, chest pain, bloody sputum, unexplained weight loss, shortness of breath, and weakness.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Lab and imaging tests are performed to define the extent of the cancer. A bronchoscopy or lung tissue biopsy is usually performed to determine the type of cancer. Sometimes the cell type of the cancer can be identified by looking at a sputum sample.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), CT Scan, MRI, PET scan, X-ray.
Conventional treatment summary
Treatment depends on the extent of the disease and may consist of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation treatment. For more information contact: American Cancer Society: (800) 227-2345.Medical specialties
Pulmonology · Thoracic Surgery · Hematology and Oncology · Radiation Oncology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Small cell lung cancer.