Heather Wakelee, MD, from Stanford University Medical Center, discusses the importance of molecular profiling in predicting the response of EGFR inhibitors for patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Molecular profiling is a necessary step beyond the initial diagnosis of NSCLC, Wakelee explains. EGFR mutations are found in about 10% of patients, but is often higher in subpopulations.
Current trials are comparing targeted therapies to chemotherapy. Patients are demonstrating better responses and longer progression rates by starting with the appropriate targeted therapy, Wakelee says, if the EGFR or ALK mutation is present.
