The role of HER-2/neu expression on the survival of patients with lung cancer: a systematic review of the literature
2003

HER-2/neu and Lung Cancer Survival

Sample size: 4582 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Meert A-P, Martin B, Paesmans M, Berghmans T, Mascaux C, Verdebout J-M, Delmotte P, Lafitte J-J, Sculier J-P

Primary Institution: Institut Jules Bordet, Bruxelles, Belgium

Hypothesis

Does HER-2/neu overexpression affect survival in lung cancer patients?

Conclusion

HER-2/neu expression is associated with worse survival in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Supporting Evidence

  • 12 studies showed negative results for survival associated with HER-2 expression.
  • 1 study indicated a positive association with survival.
  • 16 studies found no significant results regarding HER-2 expression and survival.

Takeaway

If a lung cancer patient has a lot of HER-2/neu, they might not live as long as someone who doesn't have much of it.

Methodology

A systematic review and meta-analysis of 39 studies evaluating the prognostic value of HER-2/neu expression in lung cancer.

Potential Biases

There is a risk of overestimating the effect of HER-2/neu due to the higher publication rate of positive studies.

Limitations

Potential biases due to publication bias and variability in methods for assessing HER-2/neu expression.

Participant Demographics

The studies included a range of patients with non-small-cell lung cancer, with varying stages and histologies.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.11

Confidence Interval

1.29–1.86

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1038/sj.bjc.6601252

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