Which of the following types of non-small cell lung cancer has the best prognosis?

Bronchioloalveolar carcinoma, also known as adenocarcinoma in situ, is considered to have the best prognosis among non-small cell lung cancers. This subtype typically presents as a peripheral, well-circumscribed tumor, and its growth is often slower and has a lower tendency to metastasize compared to other types of lung cancer. Early detection and localized treatment can lead to favorable outcomes, including long-term survival.

In contrast, squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma (in its more typical form), and large cell carcinoma generally have varying prognoses based on their stage at diagnosis and how aggressively they behave. Squamous cell carcinoma can often be associated with central tumors and local metastasis, while large cell carcinoma is characterized by its aggressive nature and propensity for rapid growth, leading to a poorer forecast. While standard adenocarcinoma can be less aggressive than some types, it still typically does not offer the same outcomes as bronchioloalveolar carcinoma when detected at an early stage.