Dr. Lee Yu-chung from Hong Kong United Oncology Centre shares a real-life treatment case of lung cancer patient Zhong Xiying.

Dr. Lee Yu-chung, a specialist in clinical oncology at the Hong Kong United Oncology Centre, and Ms. Zhong Xiying, a patient who recovered from stage four lung cancer, were interviewed to share a true story of treatment that transformed despair into renewed hope. Ms. Zhong was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer with metastases to the brain, liver, and bones. She initially felt helpless due to ineffective treatment and side effects, and even considered giving up. Through cancer gene testing, a rare HER2 gene mutation was discovered. Dr. Lee Yu-chung quickly developed a targetedlung cancer treatmenttreatment plan, allowing Ms. Zhong's life to gradually return to normal. She can now travel with her family and enjoy ordinary happiness.

The following content is compiled from interviews with Dr. Li Yu Chung, Jacky and Ms. Zhong Xiying, and supplemented with relevant medical information, to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of lung cancer genetic testing and personalized treatment.

From Despair to Hope: Ms. Zhong Xiying's Journey in the Fight Against Cancer

The devastating news of stage four lung cancer with multiple metastases.

When Ms. Zhong Xiying was diagnosed, she had stage four lung cancer, with cancer cells having spread to multiple organs including the brain, liver, and bones. Facing such a severe condition, coupled with unsatisfactory initial treatment results and debilitating side effects, she briefly considered giving up on treatment altogether. This feeling of despair is a common psychological challenge faced by many late-stage cancer patients.

A turning point in treatment: the discovery of HER2 gene mutations.

Dr. Li Yu Chung, Jacky emphasized the importance of cancer gene testing and insisted on performing comprehensive genetic testing for Ms. Zhong. The results revealed a rare HER2 gene mutation, which became a crucial turning point in her treatment. HER2 gene mutations are relatively rare in lung cancer patients, accounting for approximately 2-4%, but there are specific targeted therapies available for this gene mutation.

Based on the genetic testing results, Dr. Li quickly adjusted the treatment plan, adopting targeted therapy specifically for the HER2 gene mutation. This personalized treatment method precisely targets cancer cells with this specific gene mutation, resulting in significant efficacy and relatively fewer side effects.

The crucial role of cancer gene testing in lung cancer treatment.

What is cancer gene testing?

Cancer gene testing analyzes tumor tissue or blood samples to identify gene variations and mutations in cancer cells. This genetic information can help doctors to:

• Determine the specific types and subtypes of cancer
• Predict the growth rate and spread risk of tumors
• Choose the most effective targeted therapeutic drug
• Avoid using ineffective treatment options
• Assess prognosis and survival rate

HER2 gene mutations and lung cancer treatment

HER2 (Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2) gene mutations are relatively rare in lung cancer, but when detected, patients can be treated with targeted therapies specifically designed for HER2. These drugs include:

• Trastuzumab (Trastuzumab): Monoclonal antibody drugs that block HER2 protein signals
• T-DM1 (Enmetrastuzumab): Antibody drug coupling (ADC), combining chemotherapy and targeted therapy
• Trastuzumab deruxtecan (Trastuzumab deruxtecan): A new generation of ADC drugs with better efficacy

These drugs can precisely target HER2-positive cancer cells, significantly improving treatment effectiveness.

The importance of genetic testing at various stages of lung cancer.

During the interview, Dr. Li Yu chung specifically emphasized that genetic testing is crucial at every stage of lung cancer treatment:

Diagnosis period: Help formulate the initial treatment plan and choose the most suitable first-line treatment
Mid-treatment: Monitor the treatment response and adjust the plan in time
Recurrence period: Discovery of new genetic mutations and search for alternative treatment options
Advanced metastasis: Even in the fourth stage, treatable genetic mutations may still be found

Ms. Zhong's case perfectly illustrates that even in cases of advanced cancer with multiple metastases, effective treatment methods can still be found through genetic testing.

Common gene mutations in lung cancer and targeted therapy

Besides HER2 gene mutations, lung cancer patients may also have the following common gene mutations:

EGFR gene mutation

The most common gene mutation in lung cancer, EGFR mutations account for approximately 40-50% of non-small cell lung cancer patients in Asia. Targeted therapies for EGFR mutations include first-generation (Gefitinib, Erlotinib), second-generation (Afatinib), and third-generation (Osimertinib) drugs. The median overall survival with third-generation targeted therapy can reach 38.6 months.

ALK gene rearrangement

It accounts for about 3-5% of lung cancer patients. ALK target drugs such as Crizotinib, Alectinib and Lorlatinib have significant curative effects, and some patients can survive for several years without deterioration.

ROS1 gene rearrangement

It accounts for about 1-2% of lung cancer patients. Targeted drugs such as Crizotinib or Entrectinib can be used for treatment.

BRAF gene mutation

It accounts for about 1-3% of lung cancer patients. A combination therapy of Dabrafenib and Trametinib can be used.

KRAS G12C mutation

In the past, it was considered an "inoperable" target, but in recent years, new drugs such as Sotorasib and Adagrasib have come out, bringing new hope to patients with KRAS mutations.

For related information, please refer toLung Cancer Treatment Information from the Hong Kong Hospital Authority.

Personalized treatment: The new standard in modern cancer therapy.

What is personalized treatment?

Personalized medicine (or precision medicine) involves tailoring treatment plans to each patient's unique genetic characteristics, tumor properties, and overall health condition. This approach differs from traditional "one-size-fits-all" methods, significantly improving treatment effectiveness and reducing unnecessary side effects.

The advantages of personalized treatment

• Accurate and effective: Target specific gene mutations to improve the success rate of treatment
• Reduce side effects: Avoid the use of ineffective drugs and reduce the burden on the body
• Extend survival: Choose the most suitable drug to maximize the therapeutic effect
• Improve quality of life: There are fewer side effects and patients can maintain a better daily life
• Save medical costs: Avoid trying ineffective treatments and reduce unnecessary expenses

Ms. Zhong's treatment results

After receiving personalized targeted therapy for her HER2 gene mutation, Ms. Zhong Xiying's condition was effectively controlled. Her life gradually returned to normal; she was not only able to perform daily activities but also travel with her family, enjoying precious moments of ordinary happiness. This is the tangible change brought about by personalized treatment—not only extending life but also improving the quality of life.

Patients with advanced lung cancer should not give up hope.

Stage four does not equal a terminal illness.

Ms. Zhong's case clearly demonstrates that even with a diagnosis of stage four lung cancer and multiple metastases, with the correct diagnosis and personalized treatment, patients still have a chance to control the disease and even return to a normal life. Advances in modern medicine, particularly in genetic testing and targeted therapy, offer unprecedented hope for patients with advanced cancer.

Continue testing to determine the direction of treatment.

Dr. Li Yu Chung's professional judgment and insistence on comprehensive genetic testing were crucial to Ms. Zhong's successful treatment. Many patients become discouraged and give up after initial treatments fail, but deeper genetic analysis often reveals new treatment possibilities.

The importance of mutual trust between doctors and patients

Even in her most desperate moments, Ms. Zhong did not give up, and Dr. Li also did not give up searching for better treatment options. This trust and perseverance between doctor and patient are crucial factors in successfully fighting cancer. The Hong Kong United Oncology Centre adheres to the philosophy of "patient-centered care," establishing WhatsApp groups to maintain close contact with patients, ensuring they receive ample support and care throughout their treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all lung cancer patients need to undergo genetic testing?

Dr. Li Yu Chung, Jacky emphasized that genetic testing is crucial at all stages of lung cancer treatment. He particularly recommends comprehensive genetic testing for patients with non-small cell lung cancer at the time of diagnosis, in order to develop the most suitable personalized treatment plan. Even for early-stage patients, genetic testing results can help assess the risk of recurrence and guide postoperative adjuvant therapy.

How long does genetic testing take? What are the costs?

Genetic testing typically takes 1-3 weeks to obtain results, depending on the scope of the test. Costs vary depending on the specific tests performed, ranging from basic single-gene testing to comprehensive next-generation sequencing (NGS). The Hong Kong United Oncology Centre offers a medication assistance program to help alleviate patients' financial burden. Patients are advised to inquire about detailed costs and funding options during their consultation.

If initial treatment is ineffective, are there other options?

Ms. Zhong's case perfectly illustrates that even if initial treatment is ineffective, more in-depth genetic testing can still reveal new treatment options. Modern lung cancer treatment offers a variety of options, including different generations of targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy.Radiotherapyetc. The key is to maintain communication with the professional medical team and not give up lightly.

What are the treatment prospects for HER2-positive lung cancer?

Although HER2 gene mutations are rare in lung cancer (approximately 2-4%), several effective targeted therapies are available. Next-generation antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) such as Trastuzumab deruxtecan have shown particularly significant efficacy. With continuous advancements in medical research, treatment options and prognosis for HER2-positive lung cancer patients are steadily improving.

Personalized lung cancer treatment services at Hong Kong United Oncology Centre

Professional medical team

Dr. Lee Yu-chung, a clinical oncologist at Hong Kong United Oncology Centre, holds professional qualifications including a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from the University of Hong Kong, Fellowship of the Royal College of Radiologists (UK), Fellowship of the Hong Kong College of Radiologists, and Fellowship of the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine (Radiology). He specializes in cancer diagnosis, genetic testing, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and...Radiology). He has extensive clinical experience in lung cancer diagnosis, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy services.

Comprehensive cancer gene testing services

The center provides multi-level cancer genetic testing services：

• Single gene test: For specific common gene mutations (such as EGFR, ALK)
• Multi-gene test panel: Simultaneous detection of multiple common gene mutations
• Next-generation gene sequencing (NGS): Comprehensive analysis of hundreds of cancer-related genes
• Liquid biopsy: Detection of circulating tumor DNA through blood samples
• Immunotherapy biomarker detection: Evaluate PD-L1 expression level, etc.

Personalized treatment plan

Based on the results of genetic testing, the center develops a personalized treatment plan for each patient, including：

• Targeted treatment options for specific gene mutations
• Immunotherapy course planning
• Chemotherapy treatment planoptimize
• Radiologyplan
• Comprehensive multimodal treatment strategy

Patient-centered care services

The Hong Kong United Oncology Centre adheres to the philosophy of "patient-centered care" and provides comprehensive support:

• WhatsApp direct contact: Establish an independent group with the attending doctor to answer questions in real time
• 24-hour support: You can also contact the medical team during non-office hours
• Follow up regularly: Closely monitor treatment response and side effect management
• Psychological support: Assist patients and their families to face the psychological pressure of the treatment process
• Drug Subsidy Scheme: Reduce the financial burden on patients
• Clinical research opportunities: Expose patients to the latest treatment options

Lessons learned from Ms. Zhong's story

Never give up hope.

Ms. Zhong Xiying's journey in fighting cancer tells us that even when faced with stage four lung cancer with multiple metastases, as long as one doesn't give up and cooperates with a professional medical team, there is still a chance to find effective treatment methods. Her transformation, from wanting to give up treatment to now being able to travel with her family, has inspired countless patients who are battling cancer.

The value of genetic testing

Comprehensive cancer gene testing can reveal rare but treatable genetic mutations. HER2 gene mutations account for only 2-4% of lung cancer cases, and without comprehensive testing, this important treatment opportunity can easily be missed. Dr. Li Yu Chung's professional judgment and insistence on testing were crucial to Ms. Zhong's successful treatment.

The power of personalized treatment

Personalized targeted therapies for specific gene mutations not only show significant efficacy but also have relatively fewer side effects, allowing patients to maintain a better quality of life. This is the direction of modern cancer treatment – ​​not only to prolong life but also to enable patients to live with dignity and a good quality of life.

The importance of doctor-patient collaboration.

Successful cancer treatment requires trust and cooperation between both doctors and patients. Patients must trust their doctors' professional judgment, and doctors must attentively listen to their patients' needs and concerns. The Hong Kong United Oncology Centre establishes close communication channels between doctors and patients through methods such as WhatsApp groups, ensuring that patients receive full support throughout their treatment.

If you or a family member are facing a lung cancer diagnosis...

Ms. Zhong's story gives us hope and inspiration. If you or a family member is unfortunately diagnosed with lung cancer, please remember:

• Don't give up lightly, modern medicine has a variety of treatment options
• Conduct comprehensive cancer genetic testing early to find the most suitable treatment plan
• Choose a professional and experienced medical team
• Maintain a positive attitude and cooperate with the doctor's treatment recommendations
• Make good use of various support resources, including drug subsidy schemes

The professional team at Hong Kong United Oncology Centre is ready to provide you with the most advanced cancer diagnostic and personalized treatment services. We believe that through genetic testing and precision medicine, every patient has the opportunity to find the most suitable treatment method, just like Ms. Chung, and regain hope and happiness in life.

Contact us

If you or your family members would like to learn more about lung cancer treatment, cancer gene testing, or personalized treatment options, please feel free to contact the Hong Kong United Oncology Centre. Our professional team will provide you with detailed medical advice and assist in developing the most suitable treatment plan.

• Telephone：+852 2386 8002
• WhatsApp：+852 5518 2992
• Email：Enquiry@hkuoc.hk
• Address: Rooms 01-06, 20th Floor, 238 Nathan Road, Kowloon (MTR Jordan Station Exit E)

Consultation time：

• Monday to Friday: 9:00am–6:00pm
• Saturday: 9:00am–1:00pm
• Sundays and Public holidays: Closed

Let us work together for your health and create your own recovery story.