Overview of ifosfamide in small cell lung cancer

Ifosfamide, an analogue of the alkylating agent cyclophosphamide, is one of the most active agents in the treatment of small cell lung cancer (SCLC). As a single agent, the drug produces a greater than 50% objective response rate. Recent studies using ifosfamide in combination with other active agents, ie, cisplatin, carboplatin, and etoposide, in the treatment of limited-stage and extensive-stage SCLC have achieved high overall response rates and complete responses (CRs). However, the CR rate is higher in limited-disease patients. Additional studies are needed with the various ifosfamide-containing regimens to precisely define their role in the treatment of SCLC in both limited-disease and extensive disease patients.