EGFR Mutation Analysis

EGFR stands for the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor gene. DNA extracted from tumor cells is tested for mutations in this particular gene. 

The EGFR gene provides instructions to a cell for making a specialized type of protein known as a receptor, which is located on the surface of the cell. EGFR is also a group of receptors called receptor tyrosine kinases that help in regulating cell growth, division, survival, and death. Certain mutations called "activating mutations" in the EGFR gene can result in excessive signaling for growth and uncontrolled proliferation of cancer cells. These sensitizing mutations are found out with the help of an EGFR mutation test.

1. EGFR mutation testing is done after a person gets diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer, especially adenocarcinoma.
2. The test is also ordered when a patient has been treated with an EGFR-targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor but does not respond favorably to the treatment.
3. This test may then be done on a new sample, to check for specific EGFR mutations that may show the lack of a favorable response.
4. A new sample of tumor tissue, or even a blood sample, is needed to determine whether cancer has acquired new mutations, which has made it resistant to the ongoing treatment