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

Step-by-step solution

Understand the terminology

If you do not recognize all of the terms, you'll need to research the types of lung cancers. Here's a brief overview: A. Small cell: A type of lung cancer that starts from small, round cells in the lung B. Non-small cell: The term for any lung cancer that doesn't fall under the small cell category C. Epidermoid carcinoma (also known as squamous cell carcinoma): A type of non-small cell lung cancer where the tumor starts from squamous cells lining the airways D. Adenocarcinoma: A type of non-small cell lung cancer that starts in the glandular cells of the lung

Compare features of the listed lung cancer types

You need to identify the lung cancer type that is fast-growing and often spreads before it is diagnosed. A. Small cell lung cancer is known for its rapid growth and early tendency to spread to other parts of the body. B. Non-small cell lung cancer grows more slowly than small cell lung cancer, and its likelihood of early spreading varies depending on the type. C. Epidermoid carcinoma is a type of non-small cell lung cancer. Though it can spread, its rate of growth is generally slower than small cell lung cancer. D. Adenocarcinoma is another type of non-small cell lung cancer that tends to grow more slowly than small cell lung cancer.

Identify the correct answer

According to the information provided, the fast-growing lung cancer type that often spreads before diagnosis is small cell lung cancer. Hence, the correct answer is: A. Small cell

Key concepts

Small Cell Lung Cancer

Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) is a highly aggressive form of lung cancer noted for its rapid growth and quick spread to other parts of the body. Often undetected until it reaches advanced stages, SCLC originates from small, round cells in the lung called neuroendocrine cells. These cells have the ability to produce hormones like substances, contributing to the spread of cancer.

There are two main types of small cell lung cancer:

• Oat cell cancer, which accounts for the majority of cases.
• Combined small cell carcinoma, which features both small cell and non-small cell components.

The swift progression of SCLC requires swift diagnosis and treatment, however, detecting SCLC at an early stage is challenging due to the vague symptoms that often mimic other respiratory issues.

Treatment typically involves chemotherapy and radiation therapy. In some instances, a preventive treatment known as prophylactic cranial irradiation is used to lower the chance of cancer spreading to the brain. The risk factors associated with SCLC include smoking, exposure to secondhand smoke, and environmental pollutants.

Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

Non-small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) represents the majority of lung cancer diagnoses, making up about 85% of cases. Unlike Small Cell Lung Cancer, NSCLC grows and spreads more slowly, although this can vary based on the cancer subtype.

NSCLC is categorized into three main types:

• Adenocarcinoma: Typically begins in the glandular cells that line the lungs and is the most common form of lung cancer in non-smokers.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Also known as epidermoid carcinoma, originates from the squamous cells, which are flat cells lining the inside of the airways in the lungs.
• Large Cell Carcinoma: Characterized by larger, abnormal cells and is known for its tendency to grow and spread quickly.

Diagnosis of NSCLC often occurs earlier compared to SCLC because of more noticeable symptoms. This typically results in a wider range of treatment options, such as surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and radiation therapy. Factors that increase the risk of NSCLC include smoking, exposure to radon, asbestos, and genetic predisposition."

Cancer Diagnosis Process

Detecting lung cancer, whether it be small cell or non-small cell, involves a thorough evaluation process to determine the type and stage of cancer. Early diagnosis plays a crucial role in effective treatment and improved outcomes.

The cancer diagnosis process typically involves various steps:

• Initial Consult: Patients present with symptoms such as persistent cough, breathing difficulties, or unexplained weight loss.
• Imaging Tests: Procedures like a chest X-ray or CT scan can reveal abnormal masses or nodules in the lungs.
• Biopsy: A sample of lung tissue is taken via methods such as bronchoscopy or needle aspiration to confirm the presence and type of cancer cells.
• Pathology Evaluation: An expert examines the biopsy sample under a microscope to determine the cancer type and stage.
• Molecular Testing: In cases of NSCLC, additional tests are conducted to identify specific mutations that may influence treatment choices.

Accurate diagnosis guides the selection of appropriate treatment options, which vary significantly between SCLC and NSCLC, making it essential to identify the specific cancer type and its characteristics.