Gene mutation characteristics of nonsmall-cell lung carcinoma patients with wild-type epidermal growth factor receptor and sensitivity to Tarceva therapy.

Objective: To explore characteristic gene mutations in nonsmall-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) patients with wild-type epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and sensitivity to Tarceva therapy; to observe the efficacy and safety of Tarceva therapy for NSCLC patients with wild-type EGFR. Materials and Methods: NSCLC patients with wild-type EGFR and KRAS were selected. Their tumor specimens were assessed for mutations in seven key genes in pathways downstream of EGFR, including HRAS, NRAS, BRAF, PIK3CA, AKT1, MEK1, and PTEN. Then the patients were  subjected to Tarceva therapy to explore the relationship between curative effects and any gene mutations. Results: Among 10 cases, one NRAS mutation was detected in one patient who was resistant to Tarceva, and no mutations were detected in the other patients. Seven cases responded to Tarceva; 1 case obtained partial relief, and 6 cases were in stable condition. Conclusion: Patients with wild-type EGFR can also benefit from Tarceva therapy. However, an association between Tarceva therapy sensitivity and mutations in genes downstream of EGFR was not detected.