Small Cell Lung Cancer

Overview

Small Cell Lung Cancer or also known as the oat-cell carcinoma. It is less common than non-small cell lung cancer but is highly malignant and metastasizes early. It occurs almost exclusively in heavy smokers.

Signs and Symptoms

Cough, Coughing out blood (hemoptysis), Breathlessness, Chest pain, Hoarseness of voice, Weight loss, Headache, Bone pain, Wheezing, Finger clubbing, Palpitations

Common Causes

Cigarette smoking, Exposure to naturally occuring radon, Exposure to industrial materials

Risk Factors

Smoking, Exposure to secondhand smoke, Exposure to radon gas, Exposure to asbestos and other carcinogens, Family history of lung cancer, Radiation therapy to the chest

Investigation Techniques

Chest X-ray, CT scan, Biopsy and histopathology, Bronchoscopy, Sputum cytology, PET scan

Treatment and Prevention

Lifestyle changes, Surgery is not suitable as it metastasizes early, Radiotherapy, Chemotherapy, Laser therapy and stenting, Immunotherapy, Palliative care or supportive care