Induction chemotherapy and radiotherapy in locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer

Inoperable non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) was traditionally treated with radiotherapy alone. Two decades ago, investigators began adding chemotherapy as part of a multimodality approach to improve outcome. Induction chemotherapy followed by radiotherapy has proved to be superior to radiotherapy alone with respect to survival. This article reviews the development of induction chemotherapy in locally advanced NSCLC and discusses its current role in the therapeutic decisions available to these patients.