Is the epidermal growth factor receptor status in lung cancers reflected in clinicopathologic features

Abstract

Abstract Context.—Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors are molecular-targeted drugs that are innovatively effective for non–small cell lung carcinomas with EGFR mutations. Epidermal growth factor receptor is a transmembrane receptor forming dimers on ligand binding. These then stimulate signals by activating receptor autophosphorylation through tyrosine kinase activity. Autophosphorylation triggers intracellular pathways facilitating malignant conversion. The most clinically advanced EGFR inhibition strategies include small-molecule inhibition of the intracellular tyrosine kinase domain (gefitinib and erlotinib) and monoclonal antibody–mediated blockade of the extracellular ligand-binding domain (cetuximab). Lung cancers with EGFR mutations are prevalent among patients who are female, of Asian ethnicity, and nonsmokers; thus, they can obtain benefit from EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Objective.—To survey histopathologic findings and examine correlations with EGFR mutations...