Targeted Therapy in Solid Tumors: Lung Cancer

The treatment for metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has been mostly empiric, with the choice of regimens decided based on personal preferences and the toxicity profile. Recent studies have shown a significant benefit from targeted therapies in patients with molecularly selected tumors. Nevertheless, despite the unprecedented response rates and progression-free survival, essentially all patients eventually develop secondary resistance and tumor progression. Furthermore, the benefits are currently restricted to a small fraction of patients. Rationally designed trials matching genomic abnormalities with the most appropriate targeted therapies represent a significant advance in the management of NSCLC and will hopefully allow the development of more effective and less toxic treatment options. These advances in targeted therapy may ultimately lead to improved cure rates for patients with earlier stage disease and increased survival for those with incurable metastatic disease.