Rare thoracic cancers: a comprehensive overview of diagnosis and management of small cell lung cancer, malignant pleural mesothelioma and thymic epithelial tumours

Eur Respir Rev. 2023 Feb 7;32(167):220174. doi: 10.1183/16000617.0174-2022. Print 2023 Mar 31.

Abstract

Despite the progress in outcomes seen with immunotherapy in various malignancies, including nonsmall cell lung cancer, the benefits are less in small cell lung cancer, malignant pleural mesothelioma and thymic epithelial tumours. New effective treatment options are needed, guided via more in-depth insights into the pathophysiology of these rare malignancies. This review comprehensively presents an overview of the clinical presentation, diagnostic tools, staging systems, pathophysiology and treatment options for these rare thoracic cancers. In addition, opportunities for further improvement of therapies are discussed.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung*
  • Humans
  • Lung Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Lung Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Lung Neoplasms* / therapy
  • Mesothelioma* / diagnosis
  • Mesothelioma* / pathology
  • Mesothelioma* / therapy
  • Mesothelioma, Malignant*
  • Neoplasms, Glandular and Epithelial* / diagnosis
  • Neoplasms, Glandular and Epithelial* / therapy
  • Pleural Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Pleural Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Pleural Neoplasms* / therapy
  • Small Cell Lung Carcinoma*

Supplementary concepts

  • Thymic epithelial tumor