The evolving role of radiotherapy in the management of small cell lung cancer

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) represents a small but significant subset of newly diagnosed lung cancers. In spite of being both chemo- and radiation-sensitive, SCLC has a high-propensity for recurrence after treatment. Although systemic therapy plays a central role in the management of patients with SCLC, many of the advances in overall survival for patients with SCLC have directly related to the use of radiation therapy. The objective of this review is to discuss the key radiation therapy clinical trials that have defined the current standard-of-care treatment for SCLC, and to review ongoing advances in radiation therapy that may further advance outcomes for patients with SCLC.