This opening segment frames how first-line management of EGFR-mutated
advanced non-small cell lung cancer has shifted from a single-agent standard to several guideline-preferred regimens, each carrying distinct efficacy, safety, and administration considerations. The faculty then turn to the molecular testing foundation that must precede any treatment decision, emphasizing complete and timely profiling. The discussion walks through the complementary roles of tissue-based and plasma-based next-generation sequencing, how tumor board workflows and reflex testing can compress time to results, and the value ofconcurrent liquid biopsy when tissue is limited or delayed. Faculty describe looking beyond the sensitizing driver to characterize EGFR subtype, atypical and compound alterations, and co-mutations that inform prognosis and risk stratification, as well as protein level expression that may shape later-line decisions. The takeaway is a practical, workflow-oriented approach to ensuring thorough molecular characterization before frontline therapy is selected.
