Erlotinib

Definition

Erlotinib is a targeted therapy medication primarily used for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and pancreatic cancer. It works by inhibiting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase, which plays a key role in cancer cell proliferation and survival, making it an important option in cancer chemotherapy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Erlotinib is primarily indicated for patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer who have specific mutations in the EGFR gene.
2. The drug is administered orally, making it convenient for patients compared to traditional intravenous chemotherapy.
3. Common side effects of erlotinib include rash, diarrhea, and elevated liver enzymes, which require monitoring during treatment.
4. Resistance to erlotinib can develop due to secondary mutations in the EGFR gene or activation of alternative signaling pathways.
5. Erlotinib is often used in combination with other therapies, such as chemotherapy or other targeted agents, to improve treatment outcomes.

Review Questions

• How does erlotinib's mechanism of action relate to the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer?
  • Erlotinib targets the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase, which is often overexpressed or mutated in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). By inhibiting EGFR, erlotinib disrupts the signaling pathways that promote tumor growth and survival. This targeted approach helps shrink tumors and can improve survival rates for patients with specific genetic profiles.
• What are the potential side effects of erlotinib and how do they impact patient management during treatment?
  • Common side effects of erlotinib include skin rash, diarrhea, and liver enzyme elevation. These side effects require careful monitoring and management to ensure patient safety and adherence to treatment. For instance, skin reactions may necessitate dose adjustments or supportive care measures to manage discomfort and prevent complications.
• Evaluate the role of erlotinib in personalized medicine for cancer treatment, considering its effectiveness against specific genetic mutations.
  • Erlotinib exemplifies the principles of personalized medicine by being particularly effective in patients whose tumors harbor specific EGFR mutations. This targeted approach enhances treatment efficacy while minimizing unnecessary exposure to chemotherapy for those unlikely to benefit. As understanding of genetic mutations improves, the role of erlotinib may expand to include more patient populations, potentially improving outcomes and reducing side effects through more tailored therapy.

Related terms

EGFR: Epidermal growth factor receptor, a protein on the surface of cells that, when activated, promotes cell division and survival, often implicated in various cancers.

Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors: A class of drugs that block specific enzymes involved in the signaling pathways that promote cancer cell growth and survival.

Chemotherapy: A type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells, often targeting rapidly dividing cells in the body.