ISSN:
1569-8041
Keywords:
chemotherapy
;
brain metastases
;
lung cancer
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
Abstract In lung cancer patients brain metastases develop with a high frequency. For years radiotherapy has been the standard treatment for these patients. Here we review the experience with chemotherapy for brain metastases in lung cancer patients. The concept of the brain as pharmacological sanctuary site when brain metastases are present is challenged and it is argued that chemotherapy does play a role in this situation. Recent clinical trials indicate that the combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy may become the standard treatment for lung cancer patients with brain metastases. It is unclear whether for micrometastatic disease to the brain, blood brain barrier function is of importance for the outcome of chemotherapy in lung cancer patients with respect to the development of overt brain metastases. Areas of improvement of delivery of cytotoxic agents to the brain when brain metastases have not yet developed are discussed.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1023/A:1008318515795
Permalink
