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Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor


Also known as: EGFR; EGFR [Her-1]; erbB-1
Formal name: Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor
Related tests: Her-2/neu

The Test Sample

What is being tested?

EGFR is one of a family of cell membrane receptors that help regulate cell growth, division, survival and death. In a variety of cancers, there is an increased amount of EGFR present in the tumor tissue. This can be due to amplification and over-expression of the receptor that leads to excessive signaling for growth. Tumors that have increased EGFR protein tend to grow more aggressively, are more likely to metastasize, and are more resistant to standard chemotherapies. Patients with these tumors tend to have a poorer outcome. Consequently, targeting the EGFR is a valuable molecular approach in cancer therapy. EGFR-specific antibodies that bind to the receptor and prevent signaling are used to treat some of the malignancies.

There are two main ways to test tumors for amplified or over-expressed EGFR: one method measures the amount of EGFR protein present; the other looks at the genetic level for gene amplification - it evaluates the number of copies of the gene present.

How is the sample collected for testing?

A sample of cancer tissue is obtained by doing a biopsy. The biopsy procedure required depends on the organ(s) affected.

NOTE: If undergoing medical tests makes you or someone you care for anxious, embarrassed, or even difficult to manage, you might consider reading one or more of the following articles: Coping with Test Pain, Discomfort, and Anxiety, Tips on Blood Testing, Tips to Help Children through Their Medical Tests, and Tips to Help the Elderly through Their Medical Tests.

Another article, Follow That Sample, provides a glimpse at the collection and processing of a blood sample and throat culture.

Is any test preparation needed to ensure the quality of the sample?

No test preparation is needed.