Adhesion molecules can be subdivided into five different classes: Integrins, cadherins, selectins, the immunoglobulin gene superfamily and CD44. These molecules are thought to play a crucial role in carcinogenesis and in the development of metastatic disease. Their role in lung cancer is not yet completely clarified, recent studies suggesting though that some of these adhesion molecules may be potential markers of the development and progress of lung cancer disease. We just focus on research of these molecules, which are some integrins, E-cadherin, ICAM-1, VCAM, NCAM, CEA, some selectins and CD44. Recent data and future perspectives of adhesion molecules are presented. Pneumon 2001, 14(2): 109-117