Targeted Therapy in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Commentary

Abstract

Abstract Context.—The development of targeted therapy provides an exciting prospect for treatment of advanced non–small cell lung cancer. In the last few years the epithelial growth factor receptor has emerged as one of the most important targets in very selected patients. Objective.—To review current data on the role of the targeted therapy in advanced non–small cell lung cancer and offer some perspectives for the practitioner. Data Sources.—This review is drawn from pertinent literature and the author's experience. Conclusions.—Despite the remarkable development of targeted therapies in advanced non–small cell lung cancer, there is not yet a real improvement in overall survival. This might be due to (1) the development of primary or secondary resistance to therapy, (2) the biologic method used to select the population to treat, or (3) the molecular status of epithelial growth factor receptor may not be the most important predictor for targeted therapy. The understanding of interactions between epithelial growth factor receptor inhibitors and other molecules will be essential in the development of more effective treatment strategies.