Large cell carcinomas are a type of aggressive and fast-growing cancer that can affect different organs in the body. They are predominantly found in the lungs, but can also occur in the breast, stomach, pancreas, and other tissues. Large cell carcinomas are characterized by the presence of large, abnormal-looking cells that lack the specific features of other types of cancer cells.
In the context of lung cancer, large cell carcinomas are categorized as non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC), which account for about 85% of lung cancer cases. These carcinomas develop from the cells that line the airways of the lungs. They are considered more aggressive than other types of NSCLC, such as adenocarcinomas or squamous cell carcinomas.
Histologically, large cell carcinomas display little to no differentiation, meaning they lack the distinct characteristics of healthy lung cells. They often grow rapidly and can invade nearby tissues, as well as spread to distant sites through a process called metastasis.
The exact causes of large cell carcinomas are not well understood, but they are believed to be associated with risk factors such as smoking, exposure to certain chemicals or toxins, and a family history of lung cancer. Treatment options for large cell carcinomas typically include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy, depending on the stage and characteristics of the tumor.
