The role of radiotherapy in non-small cell lung cancer

Most patients who receive a diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have advanced disease and are not curable with surgery. Developments in the technology of radiation therapy (RT) have contributed to the broad utility of this treatment modality in both a curative and palliative capacity. Many patients at all stages, including those who are medically inoperable, may benefit from RT. Locally advanced NSCLC is treated commonly with combined modality therapy. Novel RT administration schedules and chemotherapy regimens for combined modality therapy are essential for improving the management of NSCLC. Additional benefits can be foreseen as new strategies for patient selection emerge.