What is small cell lung cancer?

Cancers that begin in the lungs are divided into two major types, non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer, depending on how the cells look microscopically. The two types spread differently and are treated differently.

Non-small cell lung cancer is more common than small cell lung cancer, and it generally grows and spreads more slowly. There are three main types of non-small cell lung cancer named for the type of cells in which the cancer develops: squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.

Small cell lung cancer, also called oat cell cancer, is less common than non-small cell lung cancer. This type of lung cancer grows faster and is more likely to spread to other organs in the body.

To diagnose lung cancer, the doctor examines tissue from the lung. This tissue sample, called a biopsy, can show whether or not it is cancer. The tissue sample is obtained a number of ways including:

· Needle aspiration - a needle is inserted through the chest into the tumor to remove a sample of tissue.

· Thoracentesis - A needle is inserted through the chest and removes a sample of the fluid that surrounds the lungs to check for cancer cells.

· Thoracotomy - A sample is taken during major surgery to open the chest.