Metronomic chemotherapy in non-small-cell lung cancer - current status

Chemotherapy remains a standard treatment of advanced non-small-cell lung cancer. Metronomic chemotherapy - frequent administration of low-dose cytotoxic agents - may be a new option with minimal toxicity. This method may have complex mechanisms of action - the antiangiogenic effects and modulation of the immune system are crucial. Vinorelbine could be an option for non-small-cell lung cancer patients because of it has favourable safety profile and the oral form of the drug is easy to administer. There are some studies documenting the clinical activity of oral vinorelbine in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer patients. However, further prospective studies are necessary to assess the place of metronomic chemotherapy in clinical practice.