Investigational new drugs to treat brain metastasis from non-small cell lung cancer.

INTRODUCTION

Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Brain metastasis (BM) has a high incidence in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and represents a devastating complication associated with poor prognosis and symptoms that significantly reduce the quality of life (QOL) in patients. Managing and controlling BM is critical for prolonging survival and improving QOL. Surgical resection, stereotactic radiosurgery, and whole-brain radiation therapy are key treatment modalities for patients with NSCLC and BM.

AREAS COVERED: Molecular targeted drugs developed against driver gene mutations and immune checkpoint inhibitors have shown efficacy against BM. This review examines newly approved therapies by conducting a literature search on these topics. Therefore, it is essential to determine the most appropriate local and systemic therapies and the optimal timing to maximize overall survival and QOL.

EXPERT OPINION: Despite the effectiveness of new drugs, a high mortality rate persists. We discuss future strategies for overcoming resistance and progression.