Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP) Certification Practice Test 2025 - Free AOCNP Practice Questions and Study Guide

The typical first-line treatment for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has evolved significantly with the advancements in precision medicine and the understanding of the molecular biology of cancer. In cases of advanced NSCLC, the selection of first-line therapy is largely guided by the specific cancer markers present in the tumor, such as mutations in the EGFR gene, ALK rearrangements, or PD-L1 expression levels.

Targeted therapies have dramatically improved outcomes for patients who have tumors with specific genetic mutations, providing a more tailored approach to treatment. Similarly, immunotherapy has become a cornerstone in the management of NSCLC, especially for those with high PD-L1 expression. These therapies can lead to durable responses and improved survival compared to traditional chemotherapy, making them the preferred first-line treatment option when markers indicate their use.

While chemotherapy with platinum-based agents is still a prominent treatment strategy, particularly for patients without actionable mutations or specific biomarkers, the advent of targeted therapies and immunotherapy has shifted the standard first-line treatment paradigm to focus on these options when applicable. Surgery and radiation therapy, while important in certain contexts, are not standard first-line approaches for advanced NSCLC, which typically requires systemic therapy due to the presence of metastatic disease.