[A Case of Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Treated with Three ALK Inhibitors 
and Chemotherapy]

Jue Wang1, Xiaoyan Xu1, Yanyan Sun1

  • 1Department of Oncology, Inner Mongolia People's Hospital, Hohhot 010017, China.

Insights

Most non-small cell lung cancer patients with EML4-ALK fusion respond well to ALK inhibitors. However, one patient showed rapid progression and short survival despite multiple targeted therapies, highlighting treatment challenges.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Genetics
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) fusion genes, such as EML4-ALK, are key drivers in a subset of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
  • ALK inhibitors have revolutionized treatment for EML4-ALK positive NSCLC, offering significant survival benefits for many patients.

Observation:

  • This report details a case of EML4-ALK positive lung adenocarcinoma with an unusual, aggressive clinical course.
  • Despite sequential treatment with first, second, and third-generation ALK inhibitors (Crizotinib, Ceritinib, Lorlatinib) and chemotherapy, the patient experienced rapid disease progression and limited survival (15 months).

Findings:

  • The patient developed resistance to multiple ALK inhibitors, contrasting with the typical favorable response observed in most EML4-ALK positive NSCLC cases.
  • Treatment was associated with common adverse reactions characteristic of ALK inhibitors.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the need for further research into mechanisms of resistance to ALK inhibitors in NSCLC.
  • Exploring novel therapeutic strategies and treatment paradigms is crucial for patients with refractory EML4-ALK positive lung cancer.

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