Targeted therapy for multiple gene mutations in multiple metastases of advanced gastric cancer: a case report

Xin Zhang1, Xinran Zhang1, Dandan Geng2

  • 1Department of Gastroenterology, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China.

Frontiers in Oncology
|January 1, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Targeted therapy for advanced gastric cancer initially worked after identifying MET gene amplification. However, resistance developed due to HER-2, KRAS, and TP53 mutations, leading to treatment failure and rapid disease progression.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Gastric cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in China, with rising incidence and mortality.
  • Targeted therapy represents a critical research area for advanced gastric cancer treatment.

Observation:

  • A patient with advanced gastric cancer and multiple metastases was treated.
  • Initial treatment targeting MET gene amplification led to tumor regression.

Findings:

  • The patient developed resistance to targeted therapy.
  • Overexpression or mutation of HER-2, KRAS, and TP53 genes contributed to treatment ineffectiveness.
  • Rapid disease progression and patient death occurred despite initial response.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the challenge of acquired resistance in advanced gastric cancer targeted therapy.
  • Understanding genetic alterations like HER-2, KRAS, and TP53 mutations is crucial for overcoming treatment resistance.
  • Further research into novel therapeutic strategies is needed to improve outcomes for gastric cancer patients.