Ifosfamide in small cell lung cancer

Recent literature about the treatment options of small cell lung cancer stresses the role of ifosfamide both alone and in combination with either cisplatin or carboplatin and etoposide. Its pharmacokinetics and the lower hematological toxicity permit the use of high doses which seem to be more effective in this very sensitive tumor. However, despite the increment in the response rate, in both limited and extended disease, the overall and long-term survival seems to be little influenced by therapy. Newer strategies combining old and new therapeutic approaches have to be explored to overcome the lack of progresses registered in these years.