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Metastic Non-Small Cell Cancer:

This usually means that the tumor has spread outside the lung to different sites. Many times treatment to the lung with radiation is done for patients with symptoms that cause pain and suffering. It may result in a shorter, more intense course of radiation being given to the lung or use of chemotherapy in a clinical trial setting.

For patients who are having problems outside the lung from spread of the cancer cells, known as metastases, treatment is focused on relieving pain and discomfort. The use of chemotherapy in such instances cannot cure the cancer but it may delay or prevent symptoms from the cancer as well as prolong survival. Please refer the Metastatic Treatment sections that deal with bone and brain metastases.

You may also want to strongly consider hospice care with an active narcotic/pain relief program. There are many excellent hospice programs that help to prepare you and your family for end of life decisions.