ASCP Pathology Assistant Practice Exam

Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) is a type of lung cancer that is notable for its high prevalence in smokers and its unique association with paraneoplastic syndromes, which can lead to hormone secretion. Among these, SCLC is specifically known for secreting antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and corticotrophin (also known as adrenocorticotropic hormone or ACTH).

The secretion of antidiuretic hormone can lead to the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH), a condition that causes water retention, hyponatremia, and potentially severe neurological symptoms. The production of corticotrophin can result in ectopic Cushing syndrome, which is characterized by an excess production of cortisol and its related effects, such as weight gain, hypertension, and other metabolic disturbances.

The other hormone combinations listed involve associations with different types of tumors or conditions not typically associated with SCLC. For instance, alpha-fetoprotein and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) are more commonly associated with germ cell tumors and colorectal cancer, respectively, while prolactin and growth hormone are related to pituitary adenomas. Insulin and glucagon are hormones produced by the pancreas and are typically associated