Patient Case #2: Newly Diagnosed Stage 3B NSCLC

This case examines effective management of early-stage non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) requiring integrating imaging, laboratory results, and molecular profiling to guide therapy. Initial assessment of imaging and labs informs disease staging and surgical candidacy, while additional tests—such as comprehensive biomarker panels—may be warranted to identify actionable mutations and guide targeted therapy. Emerging evidence suggests immunotherapy may still have a role in select patients with PD-L1–negative tumors, particularly when combined with chemotherapy. Timing and selection of targeted agents, including EGFR, ALK, and other approved or investigational therapies, are informed by molecular results and clinical risk factors. A personalized, evidence-driven approach ensures optimal sequencing of surgery, systemic therapy, and surveillance, improving outcomes for patients with early-stage NSCLC.