Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is common in thoracic neoplasms, with a high degree of malignancy and rapid tumor progression. SCLC is often diagnosed with widespread metastases at the time of the initial diagnosis. A small proportion of late-stage SCLC patients are in a poor physical condition and exhibit disqualifying chemoradiotherapy indications. The present study reports the case of a patient who presented with lumbago and backache. Following physical examination, computed tomography, bronchoscopy and biopsy, the patient was diagnosed with SCLC with an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group score of <2. One cycle of chemotherapy was administered whilst ventilator support was provided, and the patient's condition eventually improved. However, the patient finally succumbed to respiratory failure at 10 months post-diagnosis.