Angiogenesis inhibitors for small cell lung cancer

Abstract

Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) accounts for approximately 12–15% of all lung cancers and is characterized by a rapid growth rate and metastasis at the time of diagnosis. Despite its initial sensitivity to first-line chemotherapy, rapid acquisition of resistance to subsequent lines of therapy is usually observed. Although there is a plethora of new drugs being developed for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), there is still a shortage of treatment regimens other than the combination therapy containing platinum and etoposide or irinotecan.