Key Statistics for Lung Carcinoid Tumor

Lung carcinoid tumors constitute approximately 1% to 2% of all lung cancers in the U.S., with an estimated 2,000 to 4,500 cases diagnosed annually. These tumors tend to be identified at a slightly younger age, with an average age of 45 for typical carcinoids and 55 for atypical carcinoids.

Three-quarters of lung carcinoids are centrally located, causing noticeable symptoms such as cough, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. In contrast, peripheral carcinoids are often asymptomatic and are typically discovered incidentally.

Typical carcinoids are more prevalent, constituting four times as many cases as atypical carcinoids. Typically, typical carcinoids are discovered at stage 1, whereas atypical carcinoids are typically found at stage 2 or 3.

Carcinoid syndrome (hyperlink to hormonal syndrome article), a condition characterized by specific symptoms, arises in tumors larger than 5cm, usually accompanied by liver metastases. This occurs in 8% of cases at the initial diagnosis. Understanding these key statistics is crucial for better awareness and comprehension of lung carcinoid tumors.

Carcinoids may sometimes be associated with a condition known as DIPNECH. DIPNECH, which stands for Diffuse Idiopathic Pulmonary Neuroendocrine Cell Hyperplasia, is a rare condition that affects the lungs. It involves the abnormal growth of neuroendocrine cells in the airways, specifically the small airways called bronchioles.

Patients with DIPNECH may experience symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, and wheezing. However, some individuals may not have noticeable symptoms, and the condition might be discovered incidentally during tests for other lung issues.