Advances in research on the diagnosis and therapy of lung cancer with bone metastases

Bone metastases in advanced lung cancer patients are common and affect the life quality seriously. So early diagnosis and appropriate treatments are important. The methods of diagnosis include X-ray, CT, MRI, ECT and PET, which are different in sensitivity and specificity. The gene microarray technique is another advance for detecting micrometastasis. The gene analysis also can help understanding the biological characteristics of the primary tumor. The treatment of bone metastases in lung cancer is various, including systemic and local therapeutic means. Surgery is often used to prevent or treat the compressions and bone fractures. Radiotherapy is one of the most effective methods of pain relief. Diphosphonate provides a new convenient and effective way of alleviative treatment. In addition, supportive and symptomatic treatments should be keep in mind.