The facts behind small-cell lung cancer
Small cell lung cancer accounts for about one fifth of all lung cancer cases. This type of disease was earlier known as oat cell cancer. This was because the cancerous cells resembled oats when viewed through a microscope.
As mentioned elsewhere, small cell lung cancer is more dangerous than the non-small cell variety. This is because it spreads much faster and tends to affect critical body organs like the brain and liver.
Small cell lung cancers often originate in the central bronchi within the lungs. They tend to grow and spread rapidly. The tumors often prevent the lungs from operating at their full capacity.
This happens because the bronchi in the lungs are blocked by the tumors. Consequently, less of the oxygen that is breathed in enters into the bloodstream. And the patient begins to feel inexplicably short of breath, even though he may not be exerting himself much.
The lungs continually generate mucus which protects the inner tissues by trapping dust and other particles in the air that is breathed in. There are small structures called cilia, which resemble hair, within the lungs. These structures are constantly sweeping the mucus out of the lungs into the throat.
Small cell lung cancer tumors interfere with this movement of mucus. As a result, mucus builds inside the lungs and the region behind the tumors may get infected.
Smoking is the number one cause of lung cancer. It is said to account of about 90% of these cancers. The risk increases with the length of time the person has been smoking. The risk also goes up if smoking is taken up at an early age.
Apart from smoking, other causes of small cell lung cancer include exposure to asbestos and radioactive substances. Use of coal is also said to be a cause. Radon is thought to contribute to lung cancer, at least in some cases. Radon may accumulate in the basement areas of some homes. Family and genetic factors may also contribute to cancer.
While small cell lung cancer is inherently riskier than the non-small cell type, but it is also more responsive to radiation and chemotherapy, which are the main treatment methods used.
