Lung Cancer

Lung Cancer

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer starts when cells in the lung become abnormal and begin to grow out of control. As more cancer cells develop, they can form a tumor and may spread to other areas of the body. There are several types of lung cancer, and the type of cancer can affect how it is treated.

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Types of Lung Cancers

There two main types of lung cancer, each with its own characteristics and may require a different approach to treatment.

  • Small cell lung cancer (SCLC): Sometimes called oat cell cancer, SCLC accounts for about 10% to 15% of lung cancers.
  • Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): NSCLC makes up about 80% to 85% of lung cancers. The three main types are adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and large cell carcinoma.

Less Common Cancers & Tumors

While small cell and non-small cell lung cancers make up most diagnoses, other types of tumors can also develop in the lungs. These are less common and may require different approaches to treatment.

Lung carcinoid tumors: Accounts for less than 5% of lung tumors, and most grow slowly. Treatment depends on factors such as the type of carcinoid, its size and location, whether it has spread, and other medical conditions.

Other lung tumors: Less common lung tumors can include adenoid cystic carcinomas, lymphomas and sarcomas, as well as benign tumors such as hamartomas. These are treated differently from the more common types of lung cancer.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type and stage of lung cancer, along with other individual factors. More than one type of treatment may be used.

Small Cell Lung Cancer

Chemotherapy is commonly used, while radiation therapy may also be recommended for limited-stage disease. In some cases, surgery may be considered. Palliative treatments may also be used to help manage symptoms. Treatment options may include:

  • Chemotherapy
  • Radiation therapy
  • Surgery

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may involve surgery, radiation, chemotherapy or newer treatment approaches such as immunotherapy and targeted therapy. Palliative treatments may also be used to help manage symptoms. Treatment options may include:

  • Surgery
  • Radiofrequency ablation (RFA)
  • Radiation therapy
  • Chemotherapy
  • Targeted therapies
  • Immunotherapy

Lung Carcinoid Tumors

Treatment for lung carcinoid tumors depends on several factors, including the type of carcinoid, the size and location of the tumor, whether it has spread to lymph nodes or other organs, and other medical conditions. Treatments may be used alone or in different combinations based on the type and extent of the disease. Treatment options may include:

  • Surgery
  • Chemotherapy
  • Other drug treatments
  • Radiation therapy

Cancer Care Extends Beyond One Specialty

Cancer care often involves more than one team, treatment or area of expertise. Our teams work together to coordinate care, communicate clearly and help patients understand what comes next at each stage.

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