EGFR Mutation in Lung Cancer Explained
An EGFR mutation is a genetic change in the epidermal growth factor receptor gene that can drive lung cancer cell growth, and it is one of the most common targetable mutations in non-small cell lung cancer, especially in never-smokers.
EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) is a protein on the surface of cells that normally helps regulate cell growth. In some lung cancers, a mutation in the EGFR gene causes this protein to signal cells to grow and divide continuously, driving tumor growth.
Researchers distinguish between 'classical' EGFR mutations, which are the most extensively studied and have the most targeted therapies available, and 'atypical' EGFR mutations, a more diverse group that has historically had somewhat weaker outcomes with existing drugs, though newer combination approaches are narrowing that gap.
EGFR-targeted therapies work by blocking the mutated receptor's growth signal. EGFR is one of the six major categories tracked on our live Research Progress Tracker, alongside ALK, KRAS, and other pathways.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who tends to have EGFR-mutant lung cancer?
It occurs across the population but is disproportionately found in never-smokers and, in several studies, somewhat more often in women and in patients of East Asian descent.
Is EGFR-mutant lung cancer treated differently than other NSCLC?
Yes โ EGFR-targeted therapies are generally used instead of, or in addition to, standard chemotherapy or immunotherapy regimens for tumors carrying this mutation.