Management algorithms for stage IIIA non-small cell lung cancer with N2 node involvement.
Stage IIIA non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with N2 node involvement (IIIA[N2]) is a complex area characterized by much confusion and controversy, because data derived from a particular subgroup of IIIA(N2) often are inappropriately applied to another subgroup. The problem is not so much that stage IIIA(N2) encompasses a spectrum of disease, which is true in each stage of NSCLC. Rather, our ability to describe a patient cohort has been limited, and it is therefore often difficult to determine how and when to apply data from published studies. A simple, pragmatic approach is taken in this article to define algorithms for the management of these patients.
Detterbeck
Frank
F
Department of Surgery, Section of Thoracic Surgery, Yale University, 333 Cedar Street, FMB 128, P.O. Box 208062, New Haven, CT 06520, USA. frank.detterbeck@yale.edu
Sukumar
Mithran S
MS
D000465:Algorithms; D002289:Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung / Q000556:secondary / Q000628:therapy*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*; D008207:Lymphatic Metastasis; D008482:Mediastinum; D009367:Neoplasm Staging