Treatment of Brain Metastases in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Authors

  • Haiying Xue
  • Yuzhu Chen

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54097/zs5yr603

Keywords:

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer, Brain Metastases, Treatment, Targeted Therapy

Abstract

Non-small cell lung cancer is the most common subtype of lung cancer, and brain metastases are a frequent and devastating complication with poor prognosis. The blood-brain barrier and blood-tumor barrier limit intracranial drug delivery, resulting in suboptimal therapeutic effects. Recent advances in molecular targeted therapy and immunotherapy have markedly improved survival, particularly in patients harboring EGFR or ALK alterations, where next-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors demonstrate strong intracranial activity. Radiotherapy remains essential for local control, while chemotherapy contributes mainly to systemic disease management. Increasingly, multidisciplinary and combination strategies are shaping the treatment paradigm. Nevertheless, challenges such as drug resistance, BBB limitations, and neurocognitive preservation persist. This review summarizes current therapeutic strategies for NSCLC with brain metastases, highlights their strengths and limitations, and discusses future directions for optimizing patient outcomes.

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Published

26-11-2025

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Vol. 17 No. 3 (2025)

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