Small cell carcinoma is a deadly lung cancer caused by smoking or asbestos exposure. It is not staged numerically and is diagnosed through imaging tests and biopsy. Treatment involves chemotherapy, but the prognosis is poor as it quickly metastasizes to other organs. Prevention includes avoiding smoking and secondhand smoke.
Small cell carcinoma is a type of cancer that almost always affects the lung. It may also be referred to as oat cell carcinoma, and in some cases, it is mixed cell carcinoma. This cancer is almost always caused by smoking, but exposure to large amounts of asbestos is also a risk factor. Small cell carcinoma usually affects men more than women, and while it’s not a common type of lung cancer, it’s considered very deadly.
Unlike other types of cancer, small cell carcinoma is not staged on a numerical scale but rather simply limited or extensive. Limited stage refers to cancer that is contained only in the lungs or bronchi. Extensive stage indicates that the cancer has spread to areas outside the chest. Limited-stage small cell carcinoma is rare because it usually isn’t diagnosed until it has become extensive.
Symptoms of small cell carcinoma are similar to other types of lung cancer and can include chronic cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, sputum production, and possibly weight loss. Smokers are at higher risk of developing most types of lung cancer.
Diagnosis is typically made with imaging tests such as an MRI or PET scan and biopsy. Treatment must involve chemotherapy, and while small cell carcinoma responds well to medication, it is very aggressive and always comes back. Although it accounts for only about 15% of lung cancers, the prognosis for this type is worse than for other types.
Even with treatment, small cell carcinoma usually metastasizes quickly to other organs. After the lungs, the liver, kidneys and brain are usually affected. Surgery is almost never an option, and the prognosis for nearly all cases is short-term.
The best way to prevent these other types of lung cancer is to not smoke and avoid secondhand smoke. Anyone with symptoms of lung cancer, especially people with a history of smoking or a family history of cancer, should see a doctor for testing and diagnosis.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
