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Exon 19 deletion lung cancer

How the structures involved in Lung Cancer differ from normal
Illustration: How the structures involved in Lung Cancer differ from normal

Short answer

An exon 19 deletion is an EGFR gene change in some lung cancers that may guide selection of targeted treatment.

This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.

At a glance

Gene
EGFR
Finding
Deletion affecting exon 19
Use
May help guide treatment selection

What the result means

Genes contain instructions used by cells. EGFR helps transmit signals involved in cell growth; an exon 19 deletion changes part of that instruction and can leave growth signalling overactive. The result does not describe a separate cancer organ, and it is not a symptom. It is a molecular finding within the tumour. Testing may use tumour tissue or blood, and the report should be interpreted alongside the cancer type, stage, general health and other molecular findings. A diagnosis of Lung Cancer remains the starting point for the overall plan.

Planning care

Ask whether Genomic Tumour Profiling has identified the deletion clearly and whether another sample is needed. Your team may discuss a targeted medicine, treatment for a local tumour area, or another systemic option. Choices can change if the cancer returns or behaves differently, so follow-up scans and appointments matter. Tell the team about new medicines, pregnancy plans, allergies and existing heart, liver or lung problems. Keep the laboratory report and treatment list available for every clinician involved in your care.

When to seek care

Call your care team promptly for worsening breathlessness, persistent diarrhoea, a widespread rash, fever, eye problems, or new swelling. Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, sudden confusion, weakness, seizure, or a severe headache. New neurological symptoms can require assessment for problems such as Brain Metastases, although they may have other causes. A new Hoarse Voice also deserves clinical review, especially if it persists.

Questions for your doctor

What exactly does the molecular report show? Which treatment fits this result and why? How will response and side effects be monitored? What symptoms should trigger an urgent call? If treatment stops working, what options would we discuss next?

Questions people ask

Does an exon 19 deletion prove how advanced lung cancer is?

No. The deletion is a molecular feature. Stage is assessed separately using examinations, scans and other tests.

Can symptoms identify an exon 19 deletion?

No. Symptoms cannot establish this gene change; laboratory testing is needed.

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Cancer care in the UAE

Hospitals & Medical Centers in Abu Dhabi

Most UAE cancer care is delivered inside hospital services rather than by standalone oncology clinics, so these are licensed hospitals & medical centers listed in Abu Dhabi. Confirm the specific cancer service exists before you travel, and know that asking for a second opinion is routine.

City
  • Ahalia Hospital Musaffah Building - Musaffah - Musaffah Industrial - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

    Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +26 more

  • Al Ruwais Industrial City - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

    Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +30 more

  • Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi

    Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +30 more

Second opinions are routine in cancer care and asking for one does not affect your treatment. How to arrange a second opinion in the UAE.

Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.

A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.

Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.