Recurrent small cell lung cancer: update

Bonnie S Glisson1

  • 1Department of Thoracic, Head & Neck Medical Oncology, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer, Center, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA.

Seminars in Oncology
|March 14, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Recurrent small cell lung cancer (SCLC) management is critical. This review covers recent advances in chemotherapy, including topoisomerase I inhibitors and taxanes, plus novel molecular targeted therapies for SCLC.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pulmonology
  • Clinical Research

Background:

  • Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) frequently recurs, leading to high mortality.
  • Effective treatment strategies for recurrent SCLC remain an urgent unmet need.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent clinical research on managing recurrent small cell lung cancer.
  • To highlight advancements in conventional cytotoxins and novel molecular targeted therapies.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of clinical research from the past decade.
  • Focus on topoisomerase I inhibitors, taxanes, and molecularly targeted agents.

Main Results:

  • Updated clinical experience with newer conventional cytotoxins in recurrent SCLC.
  • Discussion of novel molecular targeted approaches with specific relevance to SCLC.

Conclusions:

  • Advances in chemotherapy and targeted therapy offer new hope for recurrent SCLC patients.
  • Continued research is essential to improve outcomes for small cell lung cancer.