New perspectives in the management of small cell lung cancer

Abstract

The treatment of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a challenge for all specialists involved. New treatments have been added to the therapeutic armamentarium in recent months, but efforts must continue to improve both survival and quality of life. Advances in surgery and radiotherapy have resulted in prolonged survival times and fewer complications, while more careful patient selection has led to increased staging accuracy. Developments in the field of systemic therapy have resulted in changes to clinical guidelines and the management of patients with advanced disease, mainly with the introduction of immunotherapy. In this article, we describe recent improvements in the management of patients with SCLC, review current treatments, and discuss future lines of research.

Keywords: Small cell lung cancer; Whole-brain radiotherapy; Prophylactic cranial irradiation; Stereotactic body radiotherapy; Immunotherapy; Atezolizumab; Durvalumab

Core Tip: The treatment of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) continues to be a challenge. Recent studies have described survival benefits achieved by new treatments or combinations of treatments that are both safe and effective. Immunotherapy has a new role in SCLC. Nevertheless, continued research efforts are needed. Here, we review the current management of SCLC and discuss recent improvements and future lines of research.