Progression of drug resistance or multiple primary lung cancer: a case report and literature review of a patient with mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor exon 14 skipping alterations lung adenocarcinoma.

Abstract

Mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (MET) exon 14 skipping alterations are rare mutations in non-small-cell lung cancer, associated with high malignancy and poor prognosis. This article presents a case of a patient diagnosed with advanced left upper lung adenocarcinoma characterized by a MET14 skipping mutation. Following first-line treatment with crizotinib, there was a significant reduction in the size of the primary lesion; however, during the course of treatment, an increase in size and prominence of solid components were observed in the right upper lung lesion. A biopsy and subsequent genetic testing revealed an epidermal growth factor receptor L858R mutation in the right upper lung adenocarcinoma, indicating the presence of multiple primary lung cancers. The patient opted against surgical intervention and local treatments, choosing instead a combination therapy regimen that included almonertinib and crizotinib. This treatment approach led to a significant reduction in the size of the right upper lung lesion. The patient's condition has remained stable without any signs of progression, resulting in an overall survival duration exceeding 53 months.