Types of Lung Cancer
Nearly all lung cancers are carcinomas, a cancer that begins in the lining or covering tissues of an organ.
Lung cancers are divided into two groups: nonsmall cell lung cancer, which is more common, and small cell lung cancer. The
tumor cells of each type grow and spread differently, and each type needs different treatment.
The three types of nonsmall cell lung cancer are named for the type of cells in the tumor:
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma – also called epidermoid carcinoma, is the most common type of lung cancer in men. This disease often begins in the bronchi,
or large air tubes leading to the lungs. It usually spreads less quickly than other types of lung cancer.
- Adenocarcinoma – usually begins along the outer edges of the lungs and under the lining of the bronchi. This is the most common type of
lung cancer in women and people who have never smoked.
- Large Cell Carcinoma – usually begins along the outer edges of the lungs and are a group of cancers with large, abnormal-looking cells.
Small cell lung cancer, sometimes called oat cell cancer, tends to grow rapidly and spreads quickly to other organs.
Treatment
At Jefferson's Kimmel Cancer Center, you will find the latest and most progressive treatment programs aided by an outstanding
cancer team and state-of-the-art technology and equipment. Our team consists of medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists,
pathologists, radiologists and genetic specialists who meet to review and discuss treatment options and strategies for patients
being treated at Jefferson’s Kimmel Cancer Center.
Lung cancer treatment varies from patient to patient. Before developing a treatment plan that’s right for you, we take into
consideration the following factors:
- size and location of the tumor
- results of the lab tests
- stage or extent of the disease
- type of lung cancer
- degree to which the cancer has spread
- your age and general health
- your preferences about treatment options
