Genetic test accurately predicts for gefitinib sensitivity in non-small cell lung cancer

American researchers have reported that use of a test to detect amplification of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene predicts sensitivity to gefitinib (IRESSA) in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), in a study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.

Gefitinib was the first in a new class of anti-cancer drugs known as EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors, which target the EGFR on tumour cells, a molecule involved in cellular processes involved in the promotion of tumor growth.

In this prospective study of 42 advanced NSCLC patients, amplification of the EGFR gene as determined by EGFR-FISH analysis in tumour samples (EGFR-FISH positivity) was associated with a significantly higher response rate and longer time-to-progression, compared with no amplication of the EGFR gene (EGFR-FISH negativity). However, the follow-up time was too short to allow for testing any differences in survival between treatment groups.

Author's conclusions: 'Gefitinib is active and well tolerated in patients with trial characteristics, and EGFR FISH analysis is an accurate predictor for such therapy.'

Source: http://jco.ascopubs.org/cgi/content/abstract/25/16/2248

Note: Following disappointing Phase III data in advanced NSCLC AstraZeneca voluntarily withdrew the European submission for IRESSA and regulatory authorities in the USA and Canada limited the use of IRESSA to those patients already experiencing benefit from the drug (see http://www.iressa.com/iressaHCP/9898_12838_0_0_0.aspx?mid=27)