Lung cancer is the second most prevalent cancer among men and women, and is the primary cause of death among malignant diseases. The high mortality rates are associated with diagnosis of the disease at more advanced stages, highlighting the need for early detection modalities.
Lung cancer, affecting more smokers than non smokers, is classified into two major types: Small Cell (15%) and Non-Small Cell (85%). Non-Small Cell tumors (NSCLC) are usually treated surgically in earlier stages, while Small Cell tumors are treated with chemotherapy (often accompanied with radiation therapy).
Non Small Cell tumors are further divided into two subcategories: squamous and non-squamous tumors. The distinction between these types is of paramount importance, as treatment regimens of these two types differs significantly:
Squamous type cancers either have low efficacy to new chemotherapeutic, Pemetrexed, or may cause potentially life threatening side effects when treated with Bevacizumab.
Furthermore, new targeted therapies, now available for NSCLC patients, depend on the presence of molecular targets such as EGFR mutations and EML4-ALK genes fusion. These genetic alterations are absent in Squamous type NSCLC.
In advanced lung cancer setting and non-resectable tumors, the importance of correct therapy is crucial. Recent advances in lung cancer research have enabled the development of unique tests, offered by Oncotest – Advantest, that help clinicians to tailor the treatment to each patient and disease, possibly improving treatment outcome and patient quality of life.
