Types of Lung Cancer
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Through the Eyes
Of A Survivor
Kathleen Shares Her ExperienceAt CTCA, lung cancer survivor Kathleen found the comprehensive care she needed to heal.
A lung cancer diagnosis has a profound impact not only on the life of the person who receives the diagnosis, but also those close to them. At Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) we understand the overwhelming impact this diagnosis can have, and work with you to ensure that everything is done to help you and your loved ones during this difficult time.
You will find that CTCA is much more than just a network of cancer treatment facilities. Because we understand that cancer affects more than just one part of your body, you will receive a treatment plan that is designed to treat much more than just your cancer. It's total care for your mind, body and spirit.
You will work with a dedicated team of experts who will provide you with comprehensive, personalized treatment that is designed around your unique needs. Your team will work with you to not only gain a better understanding of how your cancer affects you, but also to make sure that you understand all of your treatment options and can be an active participant in creating a treatment plan.
If you are exploring your treatment options, or are not completely satisfied with the treatment you are currently receiving, call us today at 800-615-3055 and speak with one of our Oncology Information Specialists. They can help you determine if CTCA is the right place for you.
Understanding the Different Types of Lung Cancer
The different types of lung cancer fall into two main categories, small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. Although it is uncommon, it is possible that characteristics of both types of lung cancer are present. If this happens, it is called a mixed small cell-large cell carcinoma. In addition to the two main types of lung cancer, other rare types such as sarcomas, and lymphomas can also occur.
Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)
Named for the small round cells that make up this cancer, small cell lung cancer accounts for a much smaller percentage of lung cancer cases than non-small cell lung cancer. SCLC is broken down into three different categories. Small cell carcinoma, mixed small call/large cell carcinoma and combined small cell carcinoma. Each of these different types of lung cancer grows and spread in a different way. Because the cancer cells multiply quickly, SCLC often spreads throughout the body, and although the main cause of SCLC is smoking, there are other risk factors as well, including exposure to second hand smoke, asbestos and radon.
There are a number of symptoms that may be associated with small cell lung cancer. Although these potential symptoms could be the result of another condition, if you experience any of them, it is imperative that you visit a medical professional.
- A persistent cough that does not go away
- Unexplained weight loss
- Swelling around the head and neck
- Shortness of breath or wheezing
- Decreased appetite
- Coughing up blood
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Non-small cell lung cancer or (NSCLC) is a much more common form of lung cancer. NSCLC can be broken down into three different types of lung cancer based on the size, shape and chemical composition of the cancer. These types are squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma and large-cell undifferentiated carcinoma. Squamous cell carcinoma is often associated with smoking and is generally found near a bronchus. Unlike squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma is usually found around the outer regions of the lung. Adenocarcinoma is the most common form of NSCLC - especially among women. Large-cell undifferentiated carcinoma can appear in any part of the lung, and often grows and spreads quickly.
The symptoms and risk factors linked to non-small cell carcinoma are very similar to those associated with small cell lung cancer, however, these different types of lung cancer are often treated differently.
Treating the Different Types of Lung Cancer
The treatment methods used to treat the different types of lung cancer vary greatly depending on a number of factors including the type of cancer, the stage of the cancer and the overall health of the patient. Some of the more commonly used treatment methods for lung cancer include surgical oncology, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. These conventional, well-known forms of treating cancer are often used to treat a wide variety of cancer types. At Cancer Treatment Centers of America, we use these conventional treatment options and combine them with a variety of new and innovative treatment options as well as complementary therapy options to help provide our patients with a comprehensive treatment plan - all under one roof.
If you are looking for a cancer treatment plan that treats you as a whole person, and is delivered in a warm, supportive environment designed to help you relax and focus on healing, CTCA may be exactly what you are looking for. Here you will find much more than a traditional cancer treatment facility. You will find a facility and a staff dedicated to you and your healing. At CTCA, you will not only have access to the latest treatment options available, you will also discover a closeness that exists between patients, staff, and family that is not found at other treatment centers.
If you would like to learn more about CTCA and our innovative approach to cancer treatment, please call one of our Oncology Information Specialists at 800-615-3055 or chat with us online about cancer treatment. At CTCA we honor your courage, respect your decisions, and offer to share your journey of healing and hope.