The advanced research of immunotherapy in Epidermal growth factor receptor mutation-positive non-small cell lung cancer.

Epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) have become the standard first-line treatment for advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with EGFR mutations. As resistance to EGFR-TKIs is associated with significantly worse prognosis, there is a critical need to understand the mechanisms underlying resistance and to develop effective subsequent treatment strategies. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) show remarkable efficacy in treating solid tumors, including melanoma, esophageal cancer, and NSCLC. The role of immunotherapy in EGFR-TKI-resistant cases has generated varied perspectives among researchers. This article reviews findings on the interplay between EGFR, the tumor microenvironment, and ICIs, as well as recent advances in post-EGFR-TKI resistance treatment strategies. By doing so, this review aims to provide insights for research and clinical management of EGFR-TKI-resistant NSCLC.