Phase II studies with docetaxel in first line - and second line treatment of SCLC demonstrated that docetaxel is an active agent in these patient groups. Therefore docetaxel seems suitable for evaluation in combination with other cytotoxic drugs active in this disease. A phase II study in previously untreated patients with SCLC shows that the combination docetaxel and cisplatin/carboplatin is an active and well tolerated regimen in extensive SCLC.