How do mutations and overexpression of certain oncogenes impact treatment decisions? So, Here is an answer the Oncoprescribe way.
If a patient with colon cancer has a tumor with KRAS mutation Erbitux or Vectibix ( EGFR targeted monoclonal antibodies ) will not work.
However if a patient with Non Small Cell Lung Cancer has a tumor with mutations involving exon 19 or exon 21, small molecule Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors such as Tarceva (Erlotinib) may be more effective than chemotherapy.
Tumors in patients with Non Small Cell Lung Cancer with high ERCC 1 gene expression are resistant to platinum compounds and non-platinum combination regimens should be a serious consideration.
