Screening for EGFR mutations in lung cancer

Discov Med. 2009 Dec;8(43):181-4.

Abstract

Certain mutations in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene confer hypersensitivity to the tyrosine kinase inhibitors gefitinib and erlotinib in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer. Large-scale screening for EGFR mutations in such patients is feasible for predicting response to TKIs and thus guiding treatment.

MeSH terms

  • ErbB Receptors / blood
  • ErbB Receptors / genetics*
  • Humans
  • Lung Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Lung Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Mutation / genetics*
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction

Substances

  • ErbB Receptors