Types of Lung Cancer

A young doctor talks to her patient

Small Cell and Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

The two most common types of lung cancer are small cell and non-small cell. Each type affects the body in different ways and responds differently to different treatments.

Small cell lung cancer tends to grow and spread quickly, while non-small cell lung cancer is more common and usually progresses more slowly. Knowing which type you or a loved one has helps your care team create a personalized treatment plan and gives you a clearer picture of what to expect.

Cancer Care at CHRISTUS Health

Small Cell Lung Cancer

Small cell lung cancer accounts for about 10–15 percent of all lung cancer cases. This type of cancer tends to grow and spread quickly, often reaching other parts of the body before being detected. Small cell lung cancer is strongly associated with smoking, and because it is aggressive, it usually requires immediate treatment.

The main subtypes of small cell lung cancer include:

  • SCLC-A: The most common subtype. It often responds well to chemotherapy.
  • SCLC-N: May grow more aggressively and behave differently than other forms.
  • SCLC-P: Less common, with unique features that may guide future treatment options.
  • SCLC-I: Known as the “inflamed” subtype, this form shows signs of immune system activity and may respond better to immunotherapy.

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Non-small cell lung cancer is the most common type of lung cancer, making up about 80–85 percent of cases. Non-small cell lung cancer usually grows more slowly and may be detected earlier than small cell lung cancer.

The main subtypes of non-small cell lung cancer include:

  • Adenocarcinoma – often starts in the outer part of the lungs, common in non-smokers.
  • Squamous cell carcinoma – often linked to smoking, usually begins in the central lungs.
  • Large cell carcinoma – grows quickly and can appear anywhere in the lung.

Differences in Treatment for Types of Lung Cancer

Small Cell Lung Cancer:

  • Primary Approach: A combination of chemotherapy and radiation is often used, as this type of cancer typically responds well to the combination.
  • Recurrence: After initial treatment, additional chemotherapy cycles or clinical trials are often used, as recurrence is common with this type.

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer:

  • Surgery: This is often used as the initial treatment in early-stage cases to remove tumors.
  • Radiation Therapy: Used alone or with other treatments, if surgery isn't recommended.
  • Chemotherapy: Common for advanced stages or often combined with other therapies.
  • Targeted Therapy: Focuses on specific genetic mutations in the cancer cells.
  • Immunotherapy: Helps the immune system attack cancer cells, often used for advanced cases.

Carcinoid Tumors

Carcinoid tumors are a rare type of cancerous tumors that can develop in the lungs. These tumors usually grow slowly and are less likely to spread outside the lungs, especially the most common type. Atypical carcinoid tumors are less common and can grow faster. Treatment often involves surgery, and your care team will guide you through next steps if additional therapy is needed. If you’ve been diagnosed with a lung carcinoid tumor, know that our oncologists are here to answer your questions and create a plan that’s right for you.

Learn if You Are at Risk of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths and one of the most preventable. To find out your risk, take the CHRISTUS Health lung cancer assessment.

Assess My Risk

Symptoms of Lung Cancer

Both types of lung cancer share symptoms, but because small cell lung cancer spreads faster, symptoms may appear more suddenly and severely.

Common symptoms of lung cancer include:

  • Persistent cough or coughing up blood
  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Shortness of breath or wheezing
  • Hoarseness or voice changes
  • Unexplained weight loss and fatigue
  • Frequent respiratory infections

Learn more about the signs and symptoms of lung cancer.

Risk Factors for Lung Cancer

The risk factors for non-small cell lung cancer vs. small cell lung cancer are often similar:

  • Smoking (the number one risk factor for both types)
  • Secondhand smoke exposure
  • Exposure to radon, asbestos, or other carcinogens
  • Family history of lung cancer
  • Air pollution and environmental exposures

Learn more about preventing lung cancer and smoking cessation.

Diagnosing Lung Cancer

Finding answers starts with listening to your symptoms and taking the right steps. If lung cancer is suspected, your care team will begin with imaging tests, usually a chest X-ray or a low-dose CT scan, to look for any unusual spots or growths in the lungs. If something is found, the next step is often a biopsy, where a small sample of tissue is taken and examined to confirm whether cancer is present and what type it is.

Once a diagnosis is made, doctors use a process called staging to understand how far the cancer has spread. This helps guide your treatment plan and gives you a clearer picture of what to expect. At CHRISTUS Health, your care team will walk with you through every step, explain your results, answer your questions, and help you make informed decisions about your care.