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Small cell lung cancer transformation during antitumor therapies: A systematic review
Xing Chai1, Xinru Zhang2, Wenqian Li3
1Department of Procurement Center, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130041, China.
Abstract:
Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related death. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC) are the two major histological categories of lung cancers. Drug resistance is a great challenge for cancer treatment, and histological transformation from NSCLC to SCLC is one of the mechanisms underlying drug resistance in NSCLC patients. SCLC-transformed patients show combined characteristics of NSCLC and SCLC; however, they lack timely diagnoses and effective treatment strategies. Thus, we reviewed the clinical characteristics of SCLC transformation patients with a literature search to enhance clinical consciousness, diagnosis, and personalized treatment for patients with it.
Insights
Histological transformation from non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to small cell lung cancer (SCLC) poses treatment challenges. This review enhances understanding of SCLC transformation for improved diagnosis and personalized therapies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cancer Biology
- Translational Medicine
Background:
- Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide.
- Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC) are the primary histological types.
- Drug resistance in NSCLC can be driven by histological transformation to SCLC, complicating treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical characteristics of patients with SCLC transformation.
- To improve clinical awareness and diagnostic capabilities for SCLC transformation.
- To inform the development of personalized treatment strategies for these patients.
Main Methods:
- Literature search for studies on SCLC transformation in NSCLC patients.
- Analysis of clinical characteristics, diagnostic challenges, and treatment outcomes.
- Synthesis of findings to provide a comprehensive overview.
Main Results:
- SCLC-transformed patients present with mixed NSCLC and SCLC features.
- Timely diagnosis and effective treatment strategies are often lacking.
- Understanding clinical characteristics is crucial for patient management.
Conclusions:
- SCLC transformation is a critical mechanism of drug resistance in NSCLC.
- Enhanced clinical recognition and diagnostic tools are needed.
- Personalized treatment approaches are essential for improving outcomes in SCLC-transformed patients.
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