About 10% to 15% of lung tumors are called small cell lung cancer, with “small” referring to the size and shape of the cells under a microscope. These tumors begin in nerve cells or hormone-producing cells of the lung.
Treatment choices for small cell lung cancer
The choice of treatment and the long-term outcome (prognosis) for people who have small cell lung cancer depend on the stage of cancer. Your age, overall health, and quality of life must also be considered. Research studies are ongoing to determine the best treatment choices or combination of treatments that increase survival rates without affecting your quality of life.
There are many combinations of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy used to treat lung cancer. Treatment options and combinations are always being studied.
People who are not cured with standard treatments or have more side effects than are desired may want to participate in clinical trials. Clinical trials are designed to find better ways to treat cancer patients and are based on the most up-to-date information.
Learn More
Read about General Information, Staging and Treatment Options for Small Cell Lung Cancer from the National Cancer Institute