Definition:
Small cell carcinomas are very aggressive cancers that are named for the small, oat-shaped cells that are seen when affected samples are examined under the microscope.
Small cell carcinomas occur most commonly in the lungs, but can also occur in other organs such as the bladder, kidney, cervix, esophagus, prostate, and even the appendix. Some small cell carcinomas produce hormones that can cause unique symptoms, known as paraneoplastic syndrome.
Small cell carcinomas in the lung account for roughly 20% of lung cancers.
Also Known As: oat cell carcinoma, oat cell lung cancer
