Customer question:
What is non-small cell lung cancer? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a collective name for several types of lung cancer arising from lung tissue cells other than small cell lung cancer (SCLC). It accounts for approximately 85% of all lung cancer cases.
Non-small cell lung cancer includes several subtypes, the most common of which are:
- Adenocarcinoma: This subtype of lung cancer arises from the cells that produce mucus in the lungs. Adenocarcinoma is the most common subtype of lung cancer and is often associated with smoking, but it can also occur in people who have never smoked.
- Squamous cell carcinoma (squamous cell carcinoma): This subtype of lung cancer arises from the squamous cells that line the airways in the lungs. It is often associated with smoking.
- Large cell carcinoma: This subtype of lung cancer includes a greater variety of cancer cells and is less common than adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
Signs and symptoms of non-small cell lung cancer can be similar to those of other forms of lung cancer and include cough, shortness of breath, bloody sputum, chest pain, weight loss, and fatigue.
Interesting reading: Small-cell lung cancer
Interesting reading: Lung cancer forum
