Question

The nurse is caring for a client with lung cancer. The nurse recognizes which type of lung cancer as fast-growing with spread usually occurring before a diagnosis is made? A. Small cell B. Non-small cell C. Epidermoid carcinoma D. Adenocarcinoma

Short answer

Answer: Small cell lung cancer

Step-by-step solution

Understand the difference between each type of lung cancer

In order to determine which lung cancer type is associated with fast growth and spread before diagnosis, it is essential to know how each type of lung cancer differs from the others. There are four options given: small cell, non-small cell, epidermoid carcinoma, and adenocarcinoma.

Define small cell lung cancer

Small cell lung cancer, or SCLC, is an aggressive form of lung cancer and is often associated with a history of smoking. This type of lung cancer is comprised of small, round cells that multiply quickly and can form large tumors.

Define non-small cell lung cancer

Non-small cell lung cancer, or NSCLC, is the most common type of lung cancer, accounting for about 85% of cases. NSCLC is categorized into three main subtypes: adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma (epidermoid carcinoma), and large cell carcinoma. This type of lung cancer grows more slowly and has a better prognosis than SCLC.

Define epidermoid carcinoma

Epidermoid carcinoma, also known as squamous cell carcinoma, is a subtype of non-small cell lung cancer. It is associated with a history of smoking and generally occurs in the central part of the lungs, in the bronchi.

Define adenocarcinoma

Adenocarcinoma is another subtype of non-small cell lung cancer. It is the most common type of lung cancer in non-smokers and typically occurs in the outer parts of the lungs, originating in the mucus-producing glandular cells.

Compare the given lung cancer types

Based on the provided definitions of each lung cancer type, we can infer that small cell lung cancer is the most aggressive and fast-growing form, while the subtypes of non-small cell lung cancer exhibit relatively slower growth rates.

Determine the correct answer

Since small cell lung cancer is known to grow and spread quickly, often before a diagnosis is made, the correct answer to this question is option A, small cell lung cancer.