Angiogenesis plays a pivotal role in tumour growth, progression and metastasis of SCLC.10 Preclinical studies have indicated that SCLC can highly express the VEGF receptors (e.g., VEGFR2 and VEGFR3).11,12 Blockade of the interaction between VEGF and VEGFRs can effectively inhibit SCLC growth.13,14 The currently available anti-angiogenic agents include VEGF monoclonal antibodies (e.g., bevacizumab) and small molecule, multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), which target the VEGFRs (e.g., sunitinib, sorafenib, vandetanib, etc.). This evidence concerns the gene KDR and small cell lung carcinoma.