Systemic Therapy for Small-Cell Lung Cancer: ASCO-Ontario Health (Cancer Care Ontario) Guideline

J Clin Oncol. 2023 Dec 10;41(35):5448-5472. doi: 10.1200/JCO.23.01435. Epub 2023 Oct 11.

Abstract

Purpose: To provide evidence-based recommendations to practicing clinicians on the management of patients with small-cell lung cancer.

Methods: An Expert Panel of medical oncology, thoracic surgery, radiation oncology, pulmonary, community oncology, research methodology, and advocacy experts were convened to conduct a literature search, which included systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and randomized controlled trials published from 1990 through 2022. Outcomes of interest included response rates, overall survival, disease-free survival or recurrence-free survival, and quality of life. Expert Panel members used available evidence and informal consensus to develop evidence-based guideline recommendations.

Results: The literature search identified 95 relevant studies to inform the evidence base for this guideline.

Recommendations: Evidence-based recommendations were developed to address systemic therapy options, timing of therapy, treatment in patients who are older or with poor performance status, role of biomarkers, and use of myeloid-supporting agents in patients with small-cell lung cancer.Additional information is available at www.asco.org/thoracic-cancer-guidelines.

Publication types

  • Practice Guideline

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Lung Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Medical Oncology / methods
  • Ontario
  • Quality of Life
  • Small Cell Lung Carcinoma* / therapy