Squamous cell carcinoma of the lung is more common in which group and has what location?

• A. Peripheral location
• B. Central location
• C. Diffuse hilar location
• D. Subpleural location

Answer: (B)

Central location is most characteristic. Squamous cell carcinoma of the lung tends to arise from the bronchial epithelium after squamous metaplasia from chronic irritation, most commonly in smokers. This makes the tumor typically endobronchial and centered around the major airways near the hilum, often leading to airway obstruction and sometimes cavitation. In contrast, other lung cancers like adenocarcinoma are more likely to be peripheral. The strong association with smoking helps explain the central, hilar distribution seen with squamous cell carcinoma.