Concomitant Non-V600E BRAF and KRAS Mutations in Colorectal Carcinoma by Next-Generation Sequencing: A Distinct

Pallavi Srivastava1, Sridhar Mishra1, Saumya Shukla1

  • 1Department of Pathology, Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Insights

This study reports a rare case of colorectal cancer with coexisting KRAS and non-V600E BRAF mutations. Understanding these genetic alterations is crucial for targeted colorectal cancer therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • The RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK pathway is frequently altered in colorectal cancer.
  • BRAFV600E mutations are actionable drug targets, while KRAS mutations predict response to anti-EGFR therapy.
  • Coexistence of non-V600E BRAF and KRAS mutations is uncommon and poorly documented.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report a rare case of colorectal carcinoma with inguinal lymph node metastases.
  • To detail the detection of concomitant KRAS and BRAF non-V600E mutations using next-generation sequencing.
  • To discuss the clinical, pathological, and therapeutic implications of these coexisting mutations.

Main Methods:

  • Next-generation sequencing (NGS) for comprehensive genomic profiling.
  • Analysis of clinical and pathological data from a colorectal cancer patient.
  • Literature review on coexisting RAS/RAF pathway mutations in colorectal cancer.

Main Results:

  • Identification of concurrent KRAS and BRAF non-V600E mutations in a patient with metastatic colorectal carcinoma.
  • The patient presented with inguinal lymph node involvement.
  • The findings highlight a rare genetic profile within the RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK pathway.

Conclusions:

  • Concurrent KRAS and BRAF non-V600E mutations represent a rare but significant molecular subtype in colorectal cancer.
  • Accurate molecular profiling is essential for understanding treatment resistance and guiding therapeutic strategies.
  • Further research is warranted to elucidate the clinical impact and therapeutic vulnerabilities associated with these combined mutations.