Small cell lung cancer

Small cell lung cancer

Also known as: Cancer, small-cell lung

Small-cell lung cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the lung.

There are two types of small-cell lung cancer. They include many different types of cells. The cancer cells of each type grow and spread in different ways. The types of small-cell lung cancer are named for the kinds of cells found in the cancer and how the cells look when viewed under a microscope:
  • Small-cell carcinoma (oat cell cancer)
  • Combined small-cell carcinoma

Find expert informaton at Providence Thoracic Oncology Program.

At Providence Cancer Center, patients and families benefit from some of the finest, most comprehensive cancer services in the world, including the best in diagnostic imaging, state-of-the-art treatments, nationally-renowned research, and compassionate counseling and support. Our doctors, surgeons, nurses, researchers, patient advocates and other caregivers work together to treat cancer aggressively and to ensure that no person has to face the challenge of a cancer diagnosis alone.

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Multidisciplinary cancer care

The evidence-based, multidisciplinary team approach to patient care at Providence Cancer Center is creating hope and changing lives for many people More »

Oncology nurse navigator

An oncology nurse navigator is an oncology certified nurse (OCN) who provides  education for each cancer patient concerning their individual treatme More »

Forms & Information

Lung Cancer Treatment Guidelines

Palliative Care Services in Southern Oregon

Providence Home Health Palliative Care is an extension of our traditional Home Health program. Patients needing palliative care often have complex needs that require specialized care.  


From the experts

Ask an Expert: Chemotherapy and insomnia

Q: I'm undergoing chemo, and though I am experiencing heavy-duty fatigue, I am also suffering from insomnia! Sometimes it's hard to fall asleep; other nights I wake up around 3 a.m. for an hour or two. My medical oncologist said chemo can disrupt the sleep-wake cycle and prescribed Ambien. I don't like the idea of relying on a sleeping pill. Anything else I can do?

Answer from Miles Hassell, M.D., director of Providence Integrative Medicine at Providence Cancer Center:

Lung Cancer FAQ: Lung cancer types and treatments

Q: "What are the different types of lung cancer and what treatments are used for each type?"

Recommended Resources

American Cancer Society: Cancer staging

Cancer.net (AKA: People Living with Cancer)

National Cancer Institute