Weekly Afatinib in the Treatment of Advanced Non-small Cell Lung Cancer with Egfr-G719c Mutation Followed by Lobectomy: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Lung cancer stands as the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Over the past three decades, the advent of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) has marked a significant turning point in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring EGFR mutations. Notably, high response rates have been notably observed in cases with exon 19 deletions (Del19) and Exon 21 substitution L858R mutations. Conversely, the G719X mutation on exon 18 is less prevalent, with variable sensitivity across different generations of TKIs. Afatinib, a second-generation inhibitor, gained FDA approval for the initial treatment of EGFR-mutant metastatic NSCLC in 2013, though its role remains incompletely understood within a multidisciplinary treatment framework, particularly in combination with surgery. However, the standard daily dose of 40mg Afatinib has demonstrated poor tolerability, often resulting in adverse events such as diarrhea and skin toxicity, leading to treatment discontinuation. A recent strategy involving a weekly dose of 280mg Afatinib has shown promising outcomes and a reduced risk of adverse events. Case Presentation: This case report highlights a 50 - year-old female diagnosed with stage IVa right lung adenocarcinoma metastasizing to the left lung (cT3N0M1a), revealing the rare EGFR-G719C (exon18) mutation. Following this diagnosis, the patient underwent open lobectomy. Nine months post-surgery, a treatment approach involving 280mg weekly Afatinib was initiated. Subsequently, the patient was closely monitored for 16 months with no signs of recurrence. Conclusions: EGFR G719C exhibits sensitivity to Afatinib, endorsing the use of Afatinib with fewer adverse events compared to the traditional daily dosage. Our case further advocates for collaborative strategies between medical oncologists and surgeons in the management of advanced-stage NSCLC.