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Small cell carcinoma of the lung: an "updated" overview
1Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA.
Objectives:
To review the current status and recent advances, and ongoing research efforts related to the diagnosis, staging, and treatment of small cell lung cancer (SCLC).
Data Sources:
Review articles, book chapters, research studies, and abstracts relating to SCLC.
Conclusions:
SCLC is the most aggressive type of lung cancer with many patients having widespread disease at the time of diagnosis. It is the most treatment responsive lung cancer to both chemotherapy and radiotherapy, with aggressive chemotherapy the cornerstone of treatment. Yet, the survival rate is limited. Several new drugs have been found to be active and it is hoped that they will lead to improved results.
Implications For Nursing Practice:
An understanding of the prognostic factors, staging, treatment modalities, and new therapies for SCLC will help nurses assist patients to make educated decisions about the potential risks and benefits of their therapeutic options.