Final answer:
Lung small cell carcinoma typically occurs centrally in the bronchi and is primarily associated with tobacco smoking. It's microscopically characterized by small cells with minimal cytoplasm and fine chromatin. Prevention includes avoiding tobacco products.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lung small cell carcinoma (SCLC) is commonly located centrally, in the bronchi near the center of the chest. It is closely associated with tobacco smoking and generally arises in the central airways. SCLC tends to grow and spread quickly, which can make it a more aggressive form of lung cancer. Its classic appearance under the microscope is small, round, oval, or spindle-shaped cells that have scant cytoplasm, finely granular nuclear chromatin, and absent or inconspicuous nucleoli, often described as oat cell carcinoma due to the shape of the cells.
The most common cause of lung cancer is exposure to tobacco smoke, making it preventable with smoking cessation and avoidance of tobacco products. Although smoking is the primary risk factor, SCLC may also develop in non-smokers who are exposed to secondhand smoke, indicating the harmful effects of passive smoking.