Final answer:
Small cell lung cancer is a highly aggressive form of lung carcinoma originating from neuroendocrine cells, predominantly linked to smoking, and characterized by rapid growth and poor prognosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The defining characteristics of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) include its origin from neuroendocrine cells within the lung tissue, specifically the bronchioles and alveoli. SCLC is a subtype of lung carcinoma and is known for its aggressive nature and poor prognosis, often due to late diagnosis. Treatment options typically involve chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy, as surgery is less common due to the advanced stage at which this cancer is usually detected. Other characteristics of SCLC include its strong association with tobacco smoking, which is the major cause of lung cancer, accounting for about 85 percent of cases.
A biopsy is necessary for a definitive diagnosis of SCLC, and it is classified based on the size and shape of the cancer cells. Symptoms associated with small cell lung cancer include coughing (sometimes up blood), wheezing, shortness of breath, chest pain, and unintentional weight loss. Given its rapid growth and tendency to metastasize early, small cell lung cancer represents a serious and urgent health concern.