Large Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Lung – Symptoms, Treatment & Support

What is Large Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Lung?

Large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the lung is a rare type of lung cancer that accounts for 1-3% of all lung cancers. It shows poor prognosis (likely course of the disease). The five year survival rate of large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the lung is 35%. It has the tendency to recur after surgical removal of the tumor.  It usually invades adjacent organs of the lungs, such as the outer layer of the lining of the lungs, called the pleura, and the wall of the chest cavity. It is more common in males as compared to females. It usually develops in older people who have a history of heavy cigarette smoking.

Disease Causes

There is no well-known cause. However, there is a strong link between the presence or diagnosis of large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of lung and chronic tobacco smoking. Other risk factors for developing large cell lung cancer are the working history in uranium mines and long-term exposure to radon gas.

Signs and Symptoms

Signs and symptoms depend on the extent and spread of the disease to other organs or parts of the body. If the cancer is limited to the lungs, the patient will only experience signs and symptoms of the respiratory system. At the same time, in cases where this cancer spreads to other parts of the body, the patient also experiences B symptoms of cancer.

General respiratory symptoms of large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of lung

• Persistent cough
• Dyspnea (shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing)
• Chest pain that worsens with coughing, laughing and breathing deeply
• Coughing up blood
• Wheezing without having asthma history
• Clubbing of the fingers and nails (A physical sign characterized by a bulging extension at the ends of one or more fingers or toes).

The following are the general B symptoms (systemic symptoms) of large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of lung when it spreads to other organs of the body. These are:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Excessive sweating at night
• Weight loss
• Bone pains

Diagnosis The following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are;

• Imaging techniques like Chest X-ray, CT-scan, MRI, and PET scan to see the site, size, and extent of the tumor.
• Tumor biopsy ( lung tumor biopsy to remove a small sample of lung tissue for histopathological examination)
• Sputum cytology
• USG guided fine needle aspiration cytology

Treatment Treatment options include surgical resection of the tumor, Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Surgery is the main option, all patients with stages I lung cancer should undergo surgical resection of the tumor (complete removal of the tumor along with the removal of some surrounding healthy tissues). Chemotherapy and radiotherapy should be considered in advance cases of cancer.

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What Support can we Give for Large Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Lung?

Large Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Lung is rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Large Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Lung, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!

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