Does stage 1 and stage 2 lung cancer need targeted therapy after surgery?

Whether targeted therapy is needed after surgery for stage 1 and stage 2 lung cancer depends on the patient's genetic test results, pathological classification, and risk of postoperative recurrence. Targeted therapy is generally not recommended for patients without specific gene mutations and with a low risk of recurrence; however, for patients with driver gene mutations such as EGFR mutations and ALK rearrangements, as well as patients with a high risk of recurrence, targeted therapy may significantly reduce the risk of postoperative recurrence and help prolong disease-free survival.

The suitability of targeted therapy after lung cancer surgery mainly depends on the results of genetic testing. Stage 1 and 2 lung cancer are usually treated with surgery, but patients with driver gene mutations (such as EGFR mutations and ALK fusions) may benefit from postoperative targeted therapy, especially those at risk of tumor recurrence. Specific targeted drugs such as osimertinib (for EGFR mutations) and alectinib (for ALK rearrangements) are selected. These drugs can effectively inhibit the growth of cancer cells and reduce the possibility of recurrence. For patients without the above mutations, targeted therapy is usually not considered after surgery, but follow-up monitoring is the main focus. Pathological classification also affects the treatment plan. Patients with adenocarcinoma or high mitotic index need to pay special attention to the risk of recurrence. Recurrence risk assessment also includes factors such as tumor size and lymph node metastasis. The doctor will decide whether targeted therapy is needed after a comprehensive evaluation.

The suitability of targeted therapy after lung cancer surgery mainly depends on the results of genetic testing. Stage 1 and 2 lung cancer are usually treated with surgery, but patients with driver gene mutations (such as EGFR mutations and ALK fusions) may benefit from postoperative targeted therapy, especially those at risk of tumor recurrence. Specific targeted drugs such as osimertinib (for EGFR mutations) and alectinib (for ALK rearrangements) are selected. These drugs can effectively inhibit the growth of cancer cells and reduce the possibility of recurrence. For patients without the above mutations, targeted therapy is usually not considered after surgery, but follow-up monitoring is the main focus. Pathological classification also affects the treatment plan. Patients with adenocarcinoma or high mitotic index need to pay special attention to the risk of recurrence. Recurrence risk assessment also includes factors such as tumor size and lymph node metastasis. The doctor will decide whether targeted therapy is needed after a comprehensive evaluation.

Although targeted therapy has clear efficacy, it is not suitable for all patients. Before use, the type of gene mutation must be identified and the doctor's advice must be strictly followed. During treatment, be alert to drug side effects such as rash, diarrhea, interstitial lung disease, etc., which should be reported to the doctor in a timely manner. Regular follow-up is required after surgery to monitor blood indicators and imaging changes to ensure early detection of signs of recurrence. If the risk of recurrence is low or no mutation is found in genetic testing, standardized follow-up can be given priority to avoid adverse reactions caused by excessive treatment.