Types of Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for 85% of cases — adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and large cell carcinoma. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) makes up the remaining 15% and is more aggressive.
NGS Testing: Foundation of Modern Treatment
In 2026, comprehensive NGS (Next-Generation Sequencing) testing is mandatory for all NSCLC patients. Key mutations to test: EGFR exon 19/21 (Osimertinib), ALK (Alectinib/Lorlatinib), ROS1 (Crizotinib), KRAS G12C (Adagrasib), MET exon 14, BRAF V600E, NTRK, HER2 insertion, TMB/MSI-H. Foundation One CDx-equivalent panel testing is available in Istanbul.
KRAS G12C is now targetable with Adagrasib (Krazati). The KRYSTAL-7 trial showed Adagrasib + Pembrolizumab significantly extends overall survival in KRAS G12C-mutant NSCLC — previously considered "undruggable".
SBRT: Revolution in Non-Surgical Treatment
Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT/SABR) has become the standard for Stage I-II lung cancer in patients who cannot or choose not to have surgery. 5 sessions with TrueBeam STx achieve 92-95% local control. Sub-millimeter precision, respiratory motion tracking. Available across Istanbul.
Immunotherapy: Who Benefits?
Patients with PD-L1 ≥50% can receive Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) monotherapy — 30-40% longer OS vs chemotherapy. Low PD-L1 patients receive chemo + immunotherapy combination. MSI-H/TMB-high patients also benefit significantly.
Lung cancer treatment in Istanbul costs 50-83% less than the USA. SBRT: $4,000-15,000 (USA: $30,000-80,000). NGS panel: $1,500-4,000 (USA: $5,000-12,000). Treatment starts in 3-7 days vs months of waiting lists in Western countries.