Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a fast-growing and aggressive form of lung cancer. While it accounts for about 10–15% of all lung cancer cases, it often spreads quickly and can become life-threatening if not caught early. Unfortunately, the disease often progresses silently, with symptoms appearing only after it has already advanced.

Knowing the risks and signs of SCLC — and seeking medical help promptly — can play a critical role in getting treatment early and improving outcomes.

🔍 What Is Small Cell Lung Cancer?

SCLC starts in the lung’s central airways and grows rapidly. It is named for the small size of the cancer cells when viewed under a microscope. Compared to non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), SCLC is more aggressive and more likely to spread to other organs such as the liver, bones, and brain.

There are two stages:

• Limited stage: Cancer is in one lung and possibly nearby lymph nodes.

• Extensive stage: Cancer has spread to the other lung, distant lymph nodes, or other parts of the body.

⚠️ Symptoms of Small Cell Lung Cancer

In its early stages, SCLC may not cause any obvious symptoms. As the cancer grows, you might experience:

• Persistent cough

• Shortness of breath

• Chest pain or tightness

• Fatigue or weakness

• Unexplained weight loss

• Wheezing

• Hoarseness

• Swelling in the face or neck

• Frequent lung infections (like bronchitis or pneumonia)

Some symptoms, such as facial swelling or dizziness, may indicate that the cancer is pressing on major blood vessels — a sign of advanced disease.

🧬 Risk Factors

The leading risk factor for SCLC is tobacco use. Up to 98% of people diagnosed with SCLC are current or former smokers. Other contributing factors include:

• Exposure to secondhand smoke

• Contact with radon gas or asbestos

• A personal or family history of lung cancer

• Prior radiation therapy to the chest

• Exposure to certain industrial chemicals

🧪 Diagnosis and Staging

If SCLC is suspected, doctors may use:

• Chest X-rays or CT scans

• PET scans or MRIs to detect spread

• Bronchoscopy or biopsy (to collect a tissue sample)

• Blood tests

• Bone or brain imaging in advanced cases

Staging helps guide the treatment plan and estimate prognosis.

🏥 Treatment Options

Treatment for small cell lung cancer typically involves:

• Chemotherapy – Main treatment, often combined with other methods

• Radiation therapy – Especially for limited-stage disease or brain metastases

• Immunotherapy – Sometimes used with chemo in extensive-stage SCLC

• Clinical trials – Offer access to emerging treatments

• Palliative care – To manage symptoms and improve comfort

Due to the aggressive nature of SCLC, treatment usually begins soon after diagnosis. While cure is more likely in early-stage disease, later stages focus on slowing progression and improving quality of life.