Small-cell lung cancers represent 10 to 15% of lung cancers with a currently decreasing incidence. Various clinical presentations are possible, with a peculiar frequency of paraneoplastic syndromes. The work-up is based on the chest, abdomen and brain computed tomography scans. The standard of care is based on i.v. chemotherapy, and cisplatine plus etoposide remains the standard (6 cycles). The standard of care includes thoracic radiotherapy in case of limited disease (at least 45 grays); prophylactic cranial irradiation is a standard of care in case of limited disease, and may be discussed in case of disseminated disease, for patients with a complete or an objective response. The standard of care for second line treatment is the topotecan.