Types of Lung Cancer for Pregnancy

Lung cancer is a type of cancer that begins in lungs. It is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. It causes around 2 million new cases and 1.76 million deaths every year, making it the most common and fatal cancer globally. It’s crucial to understand that lung cancer isn’t a single disease but a collection of various types, each with its unique characteristics and challenges. Take a look at the article to know more.

Different Types of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is of two main kinds: 

• Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

• Small cell lung cancer (SCLC)

NSCLC is the most prevalent and common type of cancer that affect lungs which accounts for 80-85% cases, as per the American Cancer Society (ACS), while SCLC accounts for 10-15 per cent. The treatments for these types of lung cancer vary significantly.

1. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

Three main sub-types of non-small cell lung cancer include:

• Adenocarcinoma: It is the leading lung carcinoma type in the US, typically starting in the outer lung regions. It’s also prevalent among non-smokers.

• Large cell carcinomas: They consist of large, unusual cells and can originate anywhere in the lungs, known for their rapid growth.

• Squamous cell carcinoma: Also referred to as epidermoid carcinoma; it commonly begins in the bronchi near the lung’s middle section.

NSCLC is categorised by the following stages:

• Occult or hidden stage

• Stage 0

• Stage 1

• Stage 2

• Stage 3

• Stage 4

To diagnose and determine the stage of NSCLC, doctors use several tests, including:

• Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy

• Bone scan

• Computed tomography (CT) scan

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

• Positron emission tomography (PET) scan

• Pulmonary function test

Treatment options for NSCLC includes:

• Chemotherapy

• Cryotherapy

• Immunotherapy

• Laser therapy

• Photodynamic therapy

• Radiation therapy

• Surgery

• Targeted therapy

2. Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)

There are 2 main types of small cell lung cancer, identified by cell types and microscopic appearance:

• Small cell carcinoma (oat-cell cancer)

• Combined small cell carcinoma

To diagnose and ascertain the stage of SCLC, doctors conduct these tests:

• Bone scan

• CT scan

• MRI

• PET scan

SCLC, known for its aggressiveness, necessitates swift treatment. Treatment options involve:

• Chemotherapy

• Immunotherapy

• Laser therapy

• Radiation therapy

• Surgery

ALSO READ: Tips to Keep Your Lungs Healthy and Whole .

Uncommon Types of Lung Cancer

Lung Carcinoid Tumours

This is a rare type of lung cancer that exhibits slower growth and makeup about 1 to 2% of lung cancer cases. They originate from neuroendocrine cells in the lungs.

The two primary subtypes are typical carcinoids (comprises 90% of cases & typically diagnosed around age 45) and atypical carcinoids (less common & typically diagnosed around age 55).

Metastatic Lung Cancer

Certain lung cancers originate from pulmonary metastasis, wherein cancer starts elsewhere in the body and gradually spreads to the lungs via the lymphatic system or bloodstream. Common cancers that frequently metastasise to the lungs include:

• Bladder cancer

• Breast cancer

• Colon cancer

• Kidney cancer

• Neuroblastoma

• Prostate cancer

• Sarcoma

• Wilms' tumour

Rare Lung Cancer Types

This includes-

1. Adenosquamous carcinoma of the lung

2. Large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma

3. Salivary gland-type lung carcinoma

4. Mesothelioma

5. Mediastinal tumours

6. Other rare lung cancers which includes sarcomatoid carcinoma and malignant granular cell lung tumours.

Lung Cancer Symptoms

Most lung cancer symptoms look similar to other, less serious illnesses. Many individuals remain symptom-free until the disease progresses, but some may experience early signs, which may include:

• Persistent or worsening cough

• Breathlessness or difficulty breathing (dyspnoea)

• Chest discomfort or pain

• Wheezing

• Coughing up blood (haemoptysis)

• Hoarseness

• Decreased appetite

• Persistent fatigue

• Shoulder pain

• Swelling in the neck, arms, face or upper chest

• Small pupil and a drooping eyelid in one eye, with reduced or absent sweating on that side of the face (Horner’s syndrome)