What are the differences between types of lung cancer?

The most common type of lung cancer is non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) which accounts for 85% of all lung cancers, and includes adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, large cell carcinoma, and other rare NSCLC, such as adenosquamous carcinoma and sarcomatoid carcinoma. Some NSCLC develop in the periphery (outer regions) of the lungs, and some begin in the central parts of the lung. Small cell lung cancer accounts for 15% of all lung cancers, begins in lungs around or near the bronchi, and is aggressive, rapidly growing, and likely to metastasize. Lung carcinoid tumors make up less than 5% of all lung cancers and tend to be slower growing. The type of lung cancer helps doctors to recommend appropriate treatment options.

Hi! The differences between types of lung cancer depend on the clinical and biological presentation of the cancer, the growth rate of the cancer, the likelihood of the cancer spreading or metastasizing to other part(s) of the body, the type(s) of treatment the cancer responds to, and the prognoses. The different lung cancer types include: non-small cell lung cancer (accounting for 85% of lung cancer diagnoses), small cell lung cancer, lung carcinoid tumor, and mesothelioma. Here is some more information about each from our site: https://lungcancer.net/types/. I hope this is helpful! Thank you so much for reaching out to us and being a part of our community! And please know we are here for you anytime! Best, Christina, LungCancer.net Team