Background: In an attempt to improve treatment results of small cell lung cancer (SCLC), combined induction chemotherapy and thoracic and prophylactic brain radiation therapy were administered.
Method: From December 1980 to December 1987, 112 patients with limited-stage SCLC were treated with combination induction chemotherapy and thoracic or prophylactic brain radiation therapy; 100 were evaluable.
Results: The complete response rate was 40%, and complete and partial responses totaled 94%, with a 5-year survival rate of 23%. There was no difference in remission and survival rates between three-drug and four-drug induction chemotherapeutic regimens. Six chemotherapeutic courses produced longer survival than less therapy. Although the occurrence of brain metastases was no different with or without prophylactic brain radiation therapy, the 3-year survival after this procedure was improved.
Conclusion: Treatment of limited-stage SCLC with induction chemotherapy and thoracic and prophylactic brain radiation therapy produced improved remission and survival rates.