Squamous Cell Carcinoma (Lung)
Overview
Plain-Language Overview
Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the lung is a type of lung cancer that starts in the cells lining the airways. It primarily affects the respiratory system, especially the larger airways like the bronchi. This cancer grows from abnormal squamous cells, which are flat cells normally found in the airway lining. It can cause symptoms such as persistent cough, coughing up blood, and difficulty breathing. The disease can spread to other parts of the body, affecting overall health and lung function. Early detection is important because it influences treatment options and outcomes.
Clinical Definition
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) of the lung is a malignant tumor arising from the squamous epithelial cells of the bronchial mucosa. It is strongly associated with tobacco smoking, which induces genetic mutations leading to malignant transformation. Histologically, it is characterized by keratinization and formation of intercellular bridges. SCC typically presents as a centrally located mass in the lung, often causing obstructive symptoms and hemoptysis. It is one of the major subtypes of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and has distinct molecular and clinical features compared to adenocarcinoma. The tumor can invade locally and metastasize, significantly impacting prognosis and management.