Lung cancer is one of the most common and serious forms of cancer worldwide. It is not a single disease, but a group of different types that differ in their behavior, treatment and prognosis. The correct classification of the cancer is crucial for choosing the appropriate treatment.

The main categories

Lung cancer is divided into two main categories:

1. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) It is the most common type, occurring in approximately 85% of cases. It includes three main subtypes:

• Adenocarcinoma: It is the most common type, especially in people who have never smoked. It is located mainly in the periphery of the lung.
• Squamous cell carcinoma: It is almost always associated with smoking. It develops in the airways, near the center of the lung, and starts in the cells that line the bronchi.
• Large cell carcinoma: It is rarer but more aggressive. It can occur anywhere in the lung and tends to grow faster.

2. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) It accounts for approximately 151% of cases. It is a particularly aggressive type of cancer that is almost exclusively associated with smoking. It is characterized by rapid growth and frequent metastasis from the stage of diagnosis. It is distinguished into limited and extensive disease.

Less common types

There are other, less common types of lung cancer, such as:

• Carcinoid tumors: They have a much slower progression and constitute a special category (divided into typical and atypical) and start from neuroendocrine cells of the lungs.
• Mesothelioma: It is a rare type of pleural cancer, often linked to asbestos exposure.
• Sarcomas and lymphomas: Although they are extremely rare in the lungs, they can also occur in this area.

Diagnosis and staging

Lung cancer is diagnosed using a combination of imaging tests (x-ray, CT or MRI, PET-CT, Octreoscan), biopsy and molecular testing to look for specific gene mutations. Staging – from stage I to IV – determines the extent of the disease and is a key factor in planning treatment.

How is it treated?

Treatment depends on the type of cancer, the stage, and the patient's general condition:

• Surgery: It is mainly recommended for early-stage non-small cell lung cancer. It includes lobectomy, pneumonectomy, or wedge resection.
• Radiotherapy: It is often applied in combination with other treatments or when surgery is not possible.
• Chemotherapy: It is widely used, mainly for the small cell type, which tends to spread quickly.
• Immunotherapy: It activates the body's immune system to attack cancer cells.
• Targeted therapies: They target specific gene mutations (such as EGFR, ALK or ROS1) and offer excellent results in selected patients.

Final thoughts

Properly classifying lung cancer is the first step towards targeted and effective treatment. Dr. Michalis Klimatsidas utilizes the most modern techniques in thoracic surgery, including robotic surgery and targeted therapy, offering personalized care based on the needs of each patient. Early diagnosis can make all the difference, so don't neglect your exams, especially if you belong to a high-risk group.