EGFR Mutations and EGFR Tyrosine Kinase Inhibition in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer

Objectives

To discuss selected molecular targets and new clinical variables that can serve as both predictive and prognostic markers for outcome in patients with non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with EGFR-TKIs.

Data Sources

Research and journal articles.

Conclusion

In the near future, treatment for NSCLC will rely ever increasingly on molecular targets rather than empirically chosen cytotoxic chemotherapy for some patients. This will improve outcomes for patients with NSCLC.

Implications for Nursing Practice

An understanding of the molecular targets and clinical variables that are predictive and prognostic of outcome in NSCLC will help nurses better care for these patients.

Keywords: Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), kirsten ras (KRAS), EGFR mutation, oncogene addiction, erlotinib, gefitinib