Which histologic subtype is most common in lung cancer?

Which histologic subtype is most common in lung cancer?

• A. Small cell
• B. Adenocarcinoma
• C. Squamous cell
• D. Large cell

Answer: (B)

Adenocarcinoma is the most common form of lung cancer. It arises from glandular cells and often forms mucin, which tends to create peripheral, peribronchial lesions rather than central masses. This peripheral tendency and its prevalence across both smokers and never-smokers (and more in women) explain why it outpaces other subtypes. In contrast, small cell and squamous cell carcinomas are more strongly linked to smoking and typically center in the airways, while large cell carcinoma is less common and less defined histologically.

Adenocarcinoma is the most common form of lung cancer. It arises from glandular cells and often forms mucin, which tends to create peripheral, peribronchial lesions rather than central masses. This peripheral tendency and its prevalence across both smokers and never-smokers (and more in women) explain why it outpaces other subtypes. In contrast, small cell and squamous cell carcinomas are more strongly linked to smoking and typically center in the airways, while large cell carcinoma is less common and less defined histologically.