Diagnostic Advances Shape Treatment Decisions in Lung Cancer

David R. Gandara, M.D., UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, discusses how diagnostic and therapeutic changes are happening alongside one another in non-small cell lung cancer.

As tumor biology becomes better understood through biopsies and genetic testing, oncologists and patients can form more personalized treatment plans. For example, the mechanism of resistance can be determined through a blood biopsy or a rebiopsy for patients with EGFR- or ALK-positive disease. The results will have a significant impact on the next line of treatment.