Prevalence and profile of EGFR mutations in NSCLC: Insights from an Eastern Indian cohort
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally. In recent years, molecular targeted therapies particularly those aimed at epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations have improved clinical outcomes in non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). Despite these advances, the overall disease burden remains high, highlighting the importance of early molecular characterization. This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Pathology at a tertiary care medical college in Eastern India over a period of 2 years (August 2021 to September 2023). All histopathologically confirmed cases of non small cell carcinoma were included in the study. Clinical and radiological data were analyzed. EGFR mutation testing was performed, including exon-specific analysis on formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissue blocks. A total of 84 patients were included, comprising 62 males (73.8%) and 22 females (26.2%). Most female cases were in the 41–60 years age group, while 62.9% of males were over 60 years. Peripheral lung lesions were noted in 44 cases, of which 40 (90.3%) were adenocarcinomas. Among the 51 adenocarcinoma cases, 16 (31.3%) were EGFR mutation-positive. Mutations were most commonly identified in exons 18, 19, and 21, with a few cases showing dual exon involvement. EGFR mutation analysis is crucial in the diagnostic and therapeutic approach to NSCLC. Integration of molecular diagnostics into routine pathology practice enables appropriate use of anti-EGFR therapies, improving prognosis and reducing treatment resistance in lung adenocarcinoma.