[Evidence-based clinical practice of radiotherapy of small-cell lung cancer].
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the effects of radiotherapy in the treatment of small-cell lung cancer and the optimal radiation doses, irradiation volume and fractionations.


METHODS
Using evidence-based principles to search and evaluate clinical evidence on radiotherapy of small-cell lung cancer and giving grades of recommendation in clinical practice.


CONCLUSIONS
The combination of chemotherapy and thoracic irradiation were the treatment strategy in limited stage small-cell lung cancer (LD SCLC). There were no clear answers on optimal irradiation dose and volume. Early thoracic irradiations were better than later ones. Radiotherapy should be started at the first or second cycle of chemotherapy. Hyperfractionated irradiation may have therapeutic benefit compared with conventional irradiation. Prophylactic cranial irradiation could improve survival for patients with complete response after chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Wang
Lü-hua
LH
Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Institute, CAMS, PUMC, Beijing 100021, China. wlhwq@yahoo.com
Chen
Dong-fu
DF
Yin
Wei-bo
WB
D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002277:Carcinoma / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D006801:Humans; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D011829:Radiation Dosage