Small Cell Lung Carcinoma and Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma: What’s the Difference?

If you have been diagnosed with lung cancer, it is time to do your research. It is important to understand the type of cancer you are faced with in order to be educated and prepared for treatment and progression. Lung cancer can be broken down into two main categories: Small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) and non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). NSCLC is a blanket term used to describe every other type of lung cancer that is not considered small cell.

Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma Explained

In the United States, it is reported that non-small cell lung carcinoma accounts for 85% to 90% of all lung cancer cases. NSCLC can be broken down into three main types:

1. Adenocarcinoma: This form of NSCLC is slow-growing and commonly found in the outer portion of the lung. It is also the most common form of lung cancer found in non-smokers.
2. Squamous cell carcinoma: This form of NSCLC is generally found in the center of the lungs.
3. Large cell carcinoma: This form of NSCLC can be found anywhere within the lung.

Small Cell Lung Carcinoma Explained

While much less common than non-small cell, SCLC is usually found in the center of the lung, in close proximity to the bronchi. This form of lung cancer is very fast-growing and prone to spreading while in its early stages.

Key Differences Between Small Cell Lung Carcinoma and Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma

• Risk Factors: Smoking is a major risk factor for lung cancer for both small cell and non-small cell. However, the small cell variety is extremely rare in non-smokers.
• Symptoms: Although the symptoms between NSCLC and SCLC are highly similar, small cell lung carcinoma is more likely to cause fatigue and weight loss when compared to non-small cell. This is due to small cell lung carcinoma tending to spread more rapidly.
• Treatment Options: Typically, patients with NSCLC have more available treatment options than patients with SCLC, such as targeted therapy drugs and immunotherapy drugs.
• Survival Rate: In many cases, NSCLC has a higher survival rate than SCLC.

Learn More

If you have been diagnosed with lung cancer, we invite you to visit Suncoast Cancer Institute today. Our team of oncology experts are extremely knowledgeable about small cell and non-small cell lung carcinoma and would welcome the opportunity to learn more about your diagnosis. Request an appointment today to find out for yourself why patients are choosing Suncoast Cancer Institute for their cancer care.