FOCAL MANAGEMENT OF BRAIN METASTASES IN SMALL CELL LUNG CANCER: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract AIMS Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) brain metastases (BM) are common at both presentation and relapse. Historically, BM managed with whole radiotherapy (WBRT) +/- chemotherapy. However, WBRT is associated significant cognitive impairment, so interest in the focal management of (encompassing stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) surgery) increasing. We systematically reviewed current literature regarding management. METHOD A systematic search PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL databases clinicaltrials.gov was conducted to obtain published articles, abstracts, ongoing studies SCLC BM. Exclusion criteria included publication before 2005 a non-English language. Additional papers were added by reviewing citations relevant papers. RESULTS Following initial review 15,420 records, we identified 67 articles eligible for inclusion. 24 2015 44 2015-2023. 8 related surgical treatment: case (n=6), retrospective cohort (n=2). 60 SRS: abstracts (n=13), (n=5), (n=14), series (n=20), prospective trials (n=8). These have been further divided topic: upfront SRS (n=23), salvage (n=19) boost (n=3). There several (n=8) investigating outcomes BM, alone when compared WBRT. CONCLUSIONS Focal treatments being used more frequently. randomised trial evidence their safety effectiveness still pending.