Small-Cell Lung Cancer Specialist in Delhi

Small Cell Lung Carcinoma (SCLC)

Small Cell Lung Carcinoma is a highly aggressive and rapidly spreading form of lung cancer that originates from neuroendocrine cells in the lung. It accounts for about 10 -15% of all lung cancers and is strongly associated with cigarette smoking – almost all the patients with SCLC are current or former smokers. It is known for its fast growth, and it often spreads to the brain, bones, liver and adrenal glands before it is diagnosed, which makes the early detection difficult. Due to this aggressive nature, SCLC is usually diagnosed in the extensive stage rather than the limited stage.

There’re two stages in SCLC:

Limited – stage: In this the cancer is confined to one lung and nearby lymph nodes.
Extensive – stage: In this the cancer has spread beyond the lungs.

Symptoms of the SCLC

Persistent cough
Chest pain
Wheezing or breathlessness
Coughing up in blood
Swelling of face and neck
Neurological symptoms

Causes of SCLC

Cigarette smoking
Exposure to secondhand smoke
Environmental toxins
Radiation exposure
Genetic susceptibility

Diagnosis

It can be diagnosed by:

CT scan/ PET – CT
Bronchoscopy with biopsy
Brain MRI
Bone scan if metastasis is suspected

Treatment

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy both
Immunotherapy
Surgery is rarely used as most cases are advanced
Supportive and palliative care

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why is SCLC not usually treated with surgery?

It is not treated with surgery because SCLC spreads very quickly and is usually diagnosed late, surgery is rarely helpful. Chemo and radiation are the mainstays.

2. How fast does SCLC progress?

SCLC can double in size within weeks. That’s why early detection is rare and treatment needs to start immediately.

3. Does SCLC come back after the treatment?

Yes, relapse is common. Even after a good response to the treatment, cancer often returns within 6-12 months.

4. How is SCLC monitored during and after the treatment?

Frequent scans (CT, PET, or MRI) and blood tests are done every few months and to track the response and to detect the recurrence early.