DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically confirmed stage IIIB (pleural or pericardial disease) or stage IV non-small cell lung cancer Measurable or evaluable indicator lesion that has not been irradiated Pleural effusions, bone metastases, brain metastases, elevated serum enzymes, and abnormal radionucliotide scans are unacceptable as sole indicator lesions No clinically significant pleural effusions or ascites No grade III or IV edema No prior pneumonectomy No symptomatic or uncontrolled brain or leptomeningeal involvement