EGFR-TKI + platinum-based chemotherapy

EGFR-TKI + platinum-based chemotherapy refers to the combination of an epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI) with a platinum-based cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agent, most commonly cisplatin or carboplatin. EGFR-TKIs (such as erlotinib, gefitinib, afatinib, dacomitinib, or osimertinib) are small molecule inhibitors that block the tyrosine kinase activity of the EGFR protein, which is frequently mutated and activated in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Platinum agents form DNA crosslinks and induce apoptosis in rapidly dividing cells. This combination has been studied primarily for advanced NSCLC with activating EGFR mutations. While preclinical studies suggested potential synergy—especially in tumors harboring specific EGFR mutations—large clinical trials have shown mixed results regarding efficacy and toxicity compared to monotherapy. The combination is not standard first-line therapy but may be considered in certain settings such as after resistance develops to initial TKI therapy[1][2][4].