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Detection of Targetable Alterations in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer using Next-generation Sequencing
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Detection of Targetable Alterations in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer using Next-generation Sequencing

Published on: October 10, 2025

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[Advances in Double Mutations of EGFR and ALK Gene in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer]

Xin Wang1, Diansheng Zhong1

  • 1Department of Medical Oncology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China.

Zhongguo Fei AI Za Zhi = Chinese Journal of Lung Cancer
|September 12, 2018
PubMed

Insights

This review explores rare co-occurring Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) mutations and Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase (ALK) rearrangements in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It highlights common patient features and treatment options, emphasizing the need for further research.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Molecular targeted therapy is crucial for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment.
  • Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) mutations and Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase (ALK) rearrangements are key oncogenic drivers in NSCLC.
  • While often considered mutually exclusive, concomitant EGFR and ALK alterations occur rarely (approx. 1%) in NSCLC patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the clinicopathologic features and treatment strategies for NSCLC patients with co-occurring EGFR mutations and ALK rearrangements.
  • To identify common characteristics of patients with this rare molecular profile.
  • To highlight knowledge gaps regarding the origin and resistance mechanisms of these co-alterations.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of published case reports and small sample studies.
  • Analysis of clinicopathologic data and treatment outcomes for NSCLC with EGFR/ALK co-alterations.

Main Results:

  • EGFR/ALK co-alterations are frequently observed in female, Asian, never-smoker patients with Stage IV adenocarcinoma.
  • First-line treatment options include EGFR or ALK tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs).

Conclusions:

  • Co-occurring EGFR mutations and ALK rearrangements represent a rare but distinct molecular subtype of NSCLC.
  • Further experimental and clinical research is essential to understand the origins and resistance mechanisms in these patients.
Keywords:
Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)Lung neoplasms

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