Why do ROS1 mutations cause lung cancer at age 40?
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I am 40 years old, and I have just been diagnosed with lung cancer but I've never smoked in my life. However, genetic tests indicated a ROS1 mutation which my doctor says could be responsible for this condition.
What made me get lung cancer so early in life due to the presence of the ROS1 mutation in me, considering that I was not exposed to any risk factors such as smoking and air pollution?
Is it a spontaneous mutation, or is it a genetic mutation?
Moreover, would having ROS1 mutation make targeted therapy better than standard chemotherapy?
Thank you
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com
I have read your query and understand your concern.
ROS1 gene mutation is one type of genetic mutation that is seen in only a few cases of lung cancer patients, mainly in younger patients and non-smokers. One should be clear about the fact that this mutation happens on its own during someone's lifetime and cannot be inherited by the patient from his/her parents.
Some environmental conditions, such as smoking, are not required for the occurrence of this mutation. It is generally related to spontaneous changes in the DNA of lung cells rather than inherited risk.
The good aspect of ROS1-positive lung cancer is that it responds very well to targeted therapy. This drug is aimed at targeting the abnormal protein formed because of the ROS1 gene mutation, thus facilitating effective regulation of tumor development.
Most times, targeted treatment has proven to be more effective and less toxic as compared to conventional chemotherapy treatment. However, chemotherapy is also sometimes used, although targeted treatment is recommended in cases of this mutation.
In general, ROS1-positive lung cancer shows better therapeutic responses when compared to other types of lung cancer because there are effective targeted therapies for this condition.
I hope my response is satisfactory to you. You can reach me through iCliniq for any further questions you may have.
Thanks.
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