Great question! Lung neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are actually their own category β they don't neatly fit into either SCLC or NSCLC. They develop from hormone-producing cells rather than the cells that typically line the airways.
There are a few types to be aware of:
- Typical carcinoids β slow-growing and rarely spread Show Full Answer
Great question! Lung neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are actually their own category β they don't neatly fit into either SCLC or NSCLC. They develop from hormone-producing cells rather than the cells that typically line the airways.
There are a few types to be aware of:
- Typical carcinoids β slow-growing and rarely spread outside the lungs
- Atypical carcinoids β faster-growing and more likely to spread
- Large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) β a fast-growing type that behaves similarly to SCLC Because NETs can vary so much in behavior and treatment needs, it's really important to talk with your oncologist about your specific subtype. The treatment approach for NETs can differ from standard SCLC or NSCLC treatments, so knowing exactly which type you have makes a big difference in planning your care.
6 days ago