Clinicopathological and prognostic implications of EGFR mutations subtypes in Moroccan non-small cell lung cancer patients: A first report

PLoS One. 2024 Jun 5;19(6):e0298721. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298721. eCollection 2024.

Abstract

Background: Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains a significant global health concern, with EGFR mutations playing a pivotal role in guiding treatment decisions. This prospective study investigated the prevalence and clinical implications of EGFR mutations in Moroccan NSCLC patients.

Methods: A cohort of 302 NSCLC patients was analyzed for EGFR mutations using multiple techniques. Demographic, clinical, and pathological characteristics were assessed, and overall survival (OS) outcomes were compared among different EGFR mutation subtypes.

Results: EGFR mutations were present in 23.5% of patients, with common mutations (81.69%) dominating. Common mutations showed strong associations with female gender and non-smoking status, while rare mutations were associated with a positive smoking history. Patients with EGFR mutations receiving tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) had significantly improved OS compared to wild-type EGFR patients. Notably, patients with common EGFR mutations had the highest OS, while those with rare mutations had a shorter survival period, albeit not statistically significant.

Conclusion: This study highlights the relevance of EGFR mutation status in NSCLC patients, particularly in therapeutic decision-making. The association between smoking history and rare mutations suggests the need for tailored approaches. The survival advantage for patients with common EGFR mutations underscores the significance of personalized treatment strategies.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung* / drug therapy
  • Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung* / genetics
  • Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung* / mortality
  • Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung* / pathology
  • ErbB Receptors* / genetics
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lung Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Lung Neoplasms* / genetics
  • Lung Neoplasms* / mortality
  • Lung Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Morocco / epidemiology
  • Mutation*
  • Prognosis
  • Prospective Studies

Substances

  • ErbB Receptors
  • EGFR protein, human

Grants and funding

The author(s) received no specific funding for this work.