Work

Navigating Uncharted Waters: Steering the Course and Confronting Challenges of Brain Metastases in EGFR-Mutant Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: Brain metastases represent a major clinical challenge in the management of non-small-cell lung cancer, particularly in patients with epidermal growth factor receptor mutations, constituting a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. In recent years, significant advancements have been made in both local therapies and systemic treatments. Nevertheless, managing central nervous system disease remains complex, encompassing challenges such as optimal therapy sequencing, resistance mechanisms, oligoprogression, the role of the blood-brain barrier, diagnostic strategies, and the influence of the brain tumor microenvironment. Despite advances, brain metastases in non-small-cell lung cancer remain an unmet need. Local treatments like radiotherapy are effective but carry risks of long-term neurological side effects, while the number and burden of brain metastases remain key prognostic factors. Surgical resection may be considered even in patients with multiple brain metastases to improve clinical status, enable further therapy, and enhance survival and quality of life. With the extension of survival afforded by systemic therapies, optimizing the balance between treatment efficacy and quality of life has become critical. Integrating patient perspectives is essential in navigating these complex clinical decisions.

Source: Cancers

DOI: 10.3390/cancers18162647