Types of neuroendocrine cancer

Lung neuroendocrine cancer

Small cell lung cancer and large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma are types of lung neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs). Typical carcinoid and atypical carcinoid are lung neuroendocrine tumours (NETs).

Neuroendocrine cancers are a group of cancers that develop in cells. You might also hear the term neuroendocrine neoplasm (NEN). This means the same as neuroendocrine cancer.

They develop in different parts of the body such as the pancreas, lungs, bowel or stomach.

There are 2 key groups of neuroendocrine cancer:

NETs and NECs are very different. So it is important to know which one you have. Talk to your doctor or specialist nurse if you are not sure.

What are lung neuroendocrine cancers?

Lung neuroendocrine cancer develops in the neuroendocrine cells of the lung. Symptoms include a cough, feeling short of breath and pain in your chest.

Grades, types and stages of lung neuroendocrine cancer

The grade shows how quickly or slowly the cancer cells are dividing and growing. The stage tells you its size and whether it has spread. There are different types. Typical carcinoid and atypical carcinoid are types of lung NET. Small cell and large cell are types of lung NEC.

Treatment for lung neuroendocrine cancer

Your treatment depends on several factors. These include the type of lung neuroendocrine cancer, where the cancer is, its size and whether it has spread. The main treatment for lung NETs is surgery.

Last reviewed: 14 Feb 2025

Next review due: 14 Feb 2028