Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive type of lung cancer in which cells in the lungs multiply in an uncontrolled way. These cells then form a tumor. The cancer can spread to other areas of the body.
SCLC accounts for about
In this article, we provide some information about the growth rate of SCLC, including its doubling time. We also look at treatment options for this type of cancer and the outlook for people living with it.
SCLC grows and spreads much faster than other types of lung cancer, such as non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
The American Cancer Society states that in
The American Lung Association advises that people with an increased risk of lung cancer, such as those with a history of smoking, should undergo annual screening. The organization states that this screening could save lives.
Research has shown that SCLC has a doubling time in the range of
The
To calculate doubling time, doctors must first take two measurements of a cancerous nodule or tumor, estimating its diameter and volume. There must be a reasonable time interval between these measurements. They can then use an equation to determine the cancer’s doubling size.
A lower doubling time signifies a faster growing cancer. SCLC tends to have a
Other ways to measure growth
Another important measure of cancer growth rate is the mitotic rate or mitotic count. The
One
In SCLC, some of the smaller cells in a person’s lungs grow in abnormal and uncontrolled ways. This growth may lead to the development of tumors, which are large lumps of tissue.
As with all cancers, SCLCs grow when the cancer cells keep on dividing. As well as growing larger in a person’s lungs, SCLC may also spread into other parts of the body. When a cancer spreads from its initial location to other body parts, this is known as metastasis.
As the
A
- brain
- liver
- bones and bone marrow
- adrenal glands
Understanding the risk factors for SCLC may help some people prevent the condition or minimize its growth.
About
SCLC may also occur after exposure to secondhand smoke, radon, and asbestos. An individual can try to reduce their exposure to such substances to help prevent SCLC.
However, it is important to remember that SCLC is not always preventable.
The
The most reliable method is to undergo some kind of cancer therapy, which could involve a combination of:
- Chemotherapy: This is often the
primary form of treatment for SCLC. Doctors may combine it with other treatments. - Radiation therapy: High energy rays can kill cancer in its early stages. Doctors
often use this treatment alongside chemotherapy. In some cases, they may use it on the brain to stop the spread of the cancer there. - Immunotherapy: This treatment can boost a person’s immune system. Doctors may also create artificial versions of parts of the immune system that can destroy the SCLC cells.
- Surgery: Doctors will rarely recommend surgery for those with SCLC because of how fast this cancer can spread.
The outlook for people with SCLC is generally
Although chemotherapy may extend survival slightly, most people with SCLC die within 2 years of receiving a diagnosis. Therefore, a person with late stage SCLC may wish to weigh up the benefits of a potentially aggressive treatment against their quality of life.
It is important to remember that these figures are estimates that are based on the results of previous studies or treatments. A person can talk with a healthcare professional about how their condition is likely to affect them.
Small cell lung cancer grows faster than other types of lung cancer, such as NSCLC. Most people receive a diagnosis of SCLC after it has already spread. However, a person can slow the spread of SCLC by undergoing treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
People at higher risk of getting SCLC, such as those with a history of smoking, should talk with their doctor to organize regular screenings for the condition. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve the outlook for people with this type of cancer.