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Lung cancer refers to malignant tumors that arise from the uncontrolled proliferation of cells in the lung tissue. These tumors can grow, spread to surrounding tissues, and cause damage. Lung cancer is primarily divided into two main types: Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) and Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC).
Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC):
This type accounts for approximately 15% of all lung cancers. It is commonly observed in smokers and tends to spread more rapidly throughout the body via the lymphatic system and bloodstream compared to other types of lung cancer.
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC):
Comprising the majority of lung cancers, NSCLC has many different subtypes. These subtypes are determined based on the type and appearance of cancer cells under a microscope. Each type has its own specific growth and spread characteristics. The main types of NSCLC include:
* Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Originates from flat, scale-like squamous cells. Also known as epidermoid carcinoma.
* Adenocarcinoma: Develops from gland-like (secretory) cells.
* Large Cell Carcinoma: A type of cancer showing large and abnormal cells under a microscope.
* Adenosquamous Carcinoma: A tumor that exhibits both squamous cell and glandular cell characteristics.
* Pleomorphic, Sarcomatoid, or Sarcomatous Carcinoma: A group of tumors containing various types of cancer cells under a microscope.
* Carcinoid Tumor: A generally slow-growing type of cancer originating from neuroendocrine cells.
What are the Types of Lung Cancer?
Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC):
This type accounts for approximately 15% of all lung cancers. It is commonly observed in smokers and tends to spread more rapidly throughout the body via the lymphatic system and bloodstream compared to other types of lung cancer.
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC):
Comprising the majority of lung cancers, NSCLC has many different subtypes. These subtypes are determined based on the type and appearance of cancer cells under a microscope. Each type has its own specific growth and spread characteristics. The main types of NSCLC include:
* Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Originates from flat, scale-like squamous cells. Also known as epidermoid carcinoma.
* Adenocarcinoma: Develops from gland-like (secretory) cells.
* Large Cell Carcinoma: A type of cancer showing large and abnormal cells under a microscope.
* Adenosquamous Carcinoma: A tumor that exhibits both squamous cell and glandular cell characteristics.
* Pleomorphic, Sarcomatoid, or Sarcomatous Carcinoma: A group of tumors containing various types of cancer cells under a microscope.
* Carcinoid Tumor: A generally slow-growing type of cancer originating from neuroendocrine cells.