Non-small cell lung cancer: an overview of diagnosis, staging, and treatment.

OBJECTIVES

To review the current status, recent advances and ongoing research efforts related to screening, diagnosis and staging, and treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

DATA SOURCES

Research studies, review articles, and abstracts relating to NSCLC.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgery is curative in a small number of patients. Radiation therapy can often control local disease and palliate symptoms; however, it does not impact overall survival. Current chemotherapy regimens have demonstrated ability to prolong survival when compared to "best supportive care"; however, survival benefit is limited to a period of a few weeks or months.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

An understanding of treatment modalities and new therapies for NSCLC will help nurses assist patients to make educated decisions about the potential risks and benefits of their therapeutic options.