Long-term survival of advanced lung adenocarcinoma by maintenance chemotherapy followed by EGFR-TKI: A case report.

Rationale The incidence of nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is high. Most nonsmall cell lung cancers have undergone multiple metastases at the time of initial diagnosis, and the 5 year survival rate is low. At present, comprehensive treatments, including systemic chemotherapy, targeted therapy, antiangiogenic therapy, and immunotherapy, prolong the survival of patients with advanced NSCLC. Herein, we report a case of NSCLC with long-term survival. Patient concerns A 61-year-old woman complained of dry cough and shortness of breath and visited our hospital in July 2011. Imaging examination revealed a left upper lung mass with multiple metastases to the liver, adrenal gland, and bone. Diagnoses Stage IVB (cT2aN3M1c) lung adenocarcinoma was diagnosed, with multiple metastases of the lymph nodes, liver, adrenal gland, and bone. Interventions and outcomes The patient received systemic chemotherapy and epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor-targeted therapy, and has survived for more than 9 years. Lessons The patient benefited from maintenance chemotherapy and epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment and achieved long-term survival.