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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Small Cell and Non Small Cell Lung Cancer?

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The main difference between small cell and non-small cell lung cancer lies in their aggressiveness, growth patterns, and treatment options. Here are the key differences between the two types:

  1. Aggressiveness: Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is more aggressive than non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and tends to spread more quickly to other parts of the body.
  2. Growth Patterns: SCLC typically starts in the airways and then spreads to other parts of the body, while NSCLC forms in the lung tissues and can be further classified into subtypes: adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.
  3. Treatment Options: SCLC is generally treated at a faster pace than NSCLC due to its ability to quickly spread. SCLC has two subtypes: small cell carcinoma and combined small cell carcinoma. NSCLC subtypes have more similar treatment options and prognosis, with the most common subtype being adenocarcinoma.

In summary, SCLC is a more aggressive form of lung cancer that typically spreads faster and has different treatment options compared to NSCLC. Both types of lung cancer have subtypes with varying growth patterns and treatment approaches.

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  • What is the Difference Between Small Cell and Non Small Cell Lung Cancer?
  • Comparative Table: Small Cell vs Non Small Cell Lung Cancer

    • Comparative Table: Small Cell vs Non Small Cell Lung Cancer

    Here is a table outlining the differences between small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC):

    Feature Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)
    Subtypes SCLC can be divided into two subtypes: small cell carcinoma and combined small cell carcinoma. NSCLC has three subtypes: adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell undifferentiated carcinoma.
    Prevalence SCLC makes up less than 20% of all lung cancer cases. NSCLC accounts for 80 to 85 out of 100 lung cancer cases (around 80 to 85%).
    Prognosis SCLC has a less favorable prognosis compared to NSCLC, with a higher likelihood of cancer returning after treatment. NSCLC has a better prognosis and more treatment options.
    First Appearance SCLC is most often found in the bronchi. NSCLC typically starts growing in the cells lining the bronchi or other parts of the lung.
    Causes SCLC is usually caused by smoking. NSCLC can be caused by various factors, including smoking, genetic factors, and environmental factors.
    Diagnosis SCLC is classified as a neuroendocrine tumor, starting in the neuroendocrine cells of the lung. NSCLC can be more difficult to diagnose due to the presence of various types of cancer cells under the microscope.
    Treatment Treatment options for both SCLC and NSCLC may differ, depending on the specific subtype and stage of the cancer.

    In summary, SCLC and NSCLC are different types of lung cancer with varying characteristics, prognoses, and treatment options. SCLC is less common but has a higher likelihood of returning after treatment, while NSCLC has a better prognosis and more treatment options.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.