Three-year disease-free survivors of small cell lung cancer treated with combination chemotherapy with or without chest irradiation

One hundred and seventy-four patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) treated with combination chemotherapy, with or without chest radiation, were analyzed. Fourteen patients (8%) survived for 3 years or more. Three-year disease-free survival continued for 12 of the 101 patients (12%) with limited disease, and one of 75 (1%) with extensive disease (P < 0.05). Patients' sex and performance status were not important in achieving long-term survival. All disease-free survivors, except two who could not be evaluated, achieved a complete response. Although the treatment programs had some influence on the long-term survival rates (P < 0.05), thoracic radiation did not have significant impact on long-term survival. Three of the 13 patients (23%) developed second malignancies and died, and one of these patients also suffered from a progressive neurologic deterioration with dementia. Two other patients died free of SCLC.Consequently, eight have remained alive and free of disease. The last relapse was observed at 1.5 years from beginning of treatment. The disease-free survival may offer the hope of cure of SCLC. However, the survivors are at an increased risk of developing late complications including second malignancies and neurologic abnormalities. Therefore, careful follow-up will be necessary.