PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

In which part of the lung does small cell carcinoma typically occur?

1. Periphery

2. Centrally

3. Lower lobes

4. Upper lobes

The correct answer is: Centrally

Small cell carcinoma, also known as small cell lung cancer (SCLC), typically arises in the central portion of the lungs, specifically within the large airways such as the bronchi. This is significant because central tumors are often more aggressive, can lead to early symptoms like coughing and hemoptysis due to their proximity to the airways, and might also cause obstructive pneumonia or atelectasis. The distinction of central versus peripheral lung cancer is crucial for diagnosis and treatment, as central tumors are usually more amenable to different therapeutic approaches, including chemotherapy and radiation, particularly in the earlier stages. This central occurrence contrasts with non-small cell lung cancers, which often present in a more peripheral location in the lungs. Understanding the typical loci of these carcinomas informs clinical practices in diagnosis and management.