Next-generation sequencing of circulating tumor DNA for detection of gene mutations in lung cancer: implications for precision treatment

Background Lung cancer remains a major global health problem, which causes millions of deaths annually. Because the prognosis is mainly determined by the stage of lung cancer, precise early diagnosis is of great significance to improve the survival and prognosis. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) has been recognized as a sensitive and specific biomarker for the detection of early- and late-stage lung cancer, and next-generation sequencing (NGS) of ctDNA has been accepted as a noninvasive tool for early identification and monitoring of cancer mutations. This study aimed to assess the value of NGS-based ctDNA analysis in detecting gene mutations in lung cancer patients.