Chemotherapy in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer

Non-small cell cancers of the lung include squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma and large cell carcinoma. These tumors have traditionally been considered to be quite resistant to both chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Although surgery has offered the best chance for cure, the tumor has usually spread too far for effective surgery by the time it is discovered. Several newer chemotherapeutic agents show improved survival rates in the treatment of these tumors. These agents include paclitaxel, carboplatin and vinorelbine. These drugs may be used as single agents or in combination and have also been used in combination with radiation. Although further study will be required before the optimal regimen is determined, it appears that use of these agents can improve the survival of patients with inoperable non-small cell cancer of the lung.