Successful empirical erlotinib treatment of a mechanically ventilated patient newly diagnosed with metastatic lung adenocarcinoma.

BACKGROUND: Lung cancer is the most common solid tumor in critically ill cancer patients who are admitted to intensive care units (ICUs). An ICU trial consists of unlimited ICU support for a limited time period. CASE REPORT: We present the case of a 60-year-old woman with newly diagnosed metastatic lung adenocarcinoma who required mechanical ventilation due to respiratory failure. Empirical erlotinib treatment was administered through a nasogastric feeding tube as part of an ICU trial, which led to a dramatic and durable response.
CONCLUSION: Empirical erlotinib should be considered when epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations are suspected in ICU newly diagnosed patients with lung adenocarcinoma.