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Published on: September 8, 2023
Pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma: a clinicopathological study including EGFR mutation analysis
Kyoichi Kaira1, Yoshiki Horie, Eriko Ayabe
1Division of Thoracic Oncology, Shizuoka Cancer Center, Sunto-gun, Shizuoka, Japan. kkaira1970@yahoo.co.jp
Summary
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations occur in about 20% of rare pulmonary pleomorphic carcinomas. Further research is needed to determine if targeted therapies improve outcomes for this aggressive cancer.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Cancer Genetics
Background:
- Pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma is a rare and aggressive epithelial tumor.
- Limited research exists on its clinicopathological characteristics.
- Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation status is largely unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinicopathological features of pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma.
- To determine the frequency of EGFR mutations in these tumors.
- To analyze the Ki-67 labeling index and survival outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 17 pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma patients.
- Investigation of EGFR mutation status and Ki-67 labeling index.
- Review of survival data and treatment responses.
Main Results:
- EGFR mutations were found in 18% of patients.
- High Ki-67 labeling index (median 62%) and high standardized uptake values on PET scans were observed.
- Surgical intervention correlated with better prognosis; chemotherapy and targeted therapy showed limited efficacy.
Conclusions:
- Approximately 20% of pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma cases harbor EGFR mutations.
- The efficacy of molecular targeted drugs for this cancer requires further investigation.
- Surgical treatment appears to improve survival outcomes.