Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP) Certification Practice Test

In which type of lung cancer does 50% of SVC syndrome cases occur?

1. Small cell lung cancer

2. Non-small cell lung cancer

3. Adenocarcinoma

4. Sarcoma

The correct answer is: Non-small cell lung cancer

The correct answer is non-small cell lung cancer, which is the type of lung cancer that accounts for approximately 50% of cases of superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome. Non-small cell lung cancer is more prevalent than small cell lung cancer and is often associated with a larger tumor burden, which can lead to mediastinal invasion and the subsequent compression of the SVC. SVC syndrome arises when the superior vena cava becomes obstructed, leading to symptoms such as facial swelling, neck distention, and respiratory distress. This syndrome is more commonly observed in malignancies that are capable of invading local structures or causing significant lymphadenopathy in the mediastinum. Non-small cell lung cancer tends to present with larger, more advanced tumors that can cause this obstruction. In comparison, small cell lung cancer, while also associated with SVC syndrome, typically represents a smaller percentage of cases and often behaves differently due to its rapid growth and tendency to metastasize early. Adenocarcinoma, a subtype of non-small cell lung cancer, also contributes to SVC syndrome but is encapsulated within the broader category of non-small cell lung cancer. Sarcoma is less associated with lung cancer and thus is unlikely to be a primary contributor to instances of SVC