Liquid biopsy for
detection of
mutation from
circulating tumor DNA is a new
technology which is attractive in that it is non-invasive.
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)
tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) is an effective first line
drug for advanced
non-small cell lung cancer patients who harbor activating EGFR
mutation . During the
course of
treatment , resistance against TKI arises which can be contributed to EGFR T790M
mutation in about 50–60% of
patients . Third generation TKI may overcome the resistance. In
patients who cannot undergo
tissue biopsy due to variable reasons,
liquid biopsy is an excellent alternative for the
detection of EGFR T790M
mutation . However, this relatively novel
method requires
standardization and vigorous quality
insurance . Thus, a standard set of
guideline recommendations for
liquid biopsy for EGFR
mutation testing suitable for the Korean medical
community is necessary. In this article, we propose a set of provisional
guideline recommendations that was discussed and approved by the Cardiopulmonary
Pathology Study Group of the Korean Society of
Pathologists .