What are the two classifications of lung cancer?
There are two main types of lung cancer: small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). A third less common type of lung cancer is called carcinoid.
What does well-differentiated cancer mean?
DIH-feh-REN-shee-AY-ted) A term used to describe cells and tissue that have mature (specialized) structures and functions. In cancer, well-differentiated cancer cells look more like normal cells under a microscope and tend to grow and spread more slowly than poorly differentiated or undifferentiated cancer cells.
How are most lung cancers diagnosed?
Some lung cancers can be found by screening, but most lung cancers are found because they are causing problems. The actual diagnosis of lung cancer is made by looking at a sample of lung cells in the lab. If you have possible signs or symptoms of lung cancer, see your doctor.
Which type of lung cancer is most likely to metastasis?
Lung carcinomas when detected are most often in a metastatic stage IV. Lung carcinomas metastasize by lymphatic as well as blood vessels.
How does a pathologist determine if a cells is malignant?
After doctors obtain the biopsy, the sample goes to a pathologist who analyzes the appearance of the cells under a microscope and determines whether the tissue that was removed is benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
Is grade the same as stage in cancer?
The stage of a cancer describes the size of a tumour and how far it has spread from where it originated. The grade describes the appearance of the cancerous cells. If you’re diagnosed with cancer, you may have more tests to help determine how far it has progressed.
What stage is poorly differentiated carcinoma?
High grade or grade III tumor cells are poorly differentiated. This means that the tumor cells don’t look like normal cells. They’re disorganized under the microscope and tend to grow and spread faster than grade I tumors.