Bengaluru, Karnataka, 6th of April, 2026 : In a remarkable case of precision oncology and multidisciplinary care, a 45-Year-Old Male diagnosed with advanced Lung Cancer that had spread to his brains was successfully treated at Fortis Hospital Bannerghatta Road. The patient was diagnosed with cancer of the lungs in the year 2020 and underwent treatment for over five years at Fortis Bannerghatta with a comprehensive multidisciplinary care and precision-guided targeted therapy. Lung cancer occurring at such a young age is uncommon, and further molecular testing revealed that his cancer was ALK-positive, a rare subtype seen in only 5–7% of lung cancer patients – making the case both clinically rare and medically challenging. The case was managed by Dr. Niti Raizada, Principal Director, Medical Oncology & Hemato-Oncology, Fortis Hospitals, Bengaluru.
The patient, was initially diagnosed in 2020 at the age of 39 after experiencing persistent fatigue, back pain, breathlessness, and headaches. Detailed investigations revealed advanced metastatic lung adenocarcinoma (a form of non-small cell lung cancer) that had already spread to multiple parts of the body including lymph nodes, bones and brain, a stage typically associated with poor survival outcomes. In patients with such extensive disease spread, especially involving the brain, survival rates are historically below 30%. The patient had no prior major illnesses, no similar family history of cancer, and minimal comorbidities apart from diabetes, making the aggressive presentation at a young age particularly unusual.
Given the severity of disease, the patient was managed by a multidisciplinary team led by Dr. Niti Raizada, Principal Director – Medical Oncology & Hemato-Oncology, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, neurology, and supportive care specialists at Fortis Hospital Bannerghatta Road. He was initially treated with a combination of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and bone-strengthening therapy, achieving a significant reduction in tumour burden across the body. Following confirmation of ALK-positive disease, a genetic subtype seen in a small percentage of lung cancer patients, he was placed advanced on long-term oral targeted therapy along with bone protection therapy, which provided sustained and meaningful disease control.
In 2024, imaging suggested possible progression in the chest lining and brain. The case was reviewed in a multidisciplinary tumour board. However, further investigations, including biopsy, and spinal fluid examination did not show active malignancy. Treatment was optimized with next-generation targeted therapy (lorlatinib-based regimen) and supportive medication, following which scans showed stabilisation and excellent disease control into early 2025. The patient was recently admitted for scheduled supportive therapy and was discharged in stable clinical condition with advice for continued targeted therapy, metabolic monitoring, and regular follow-up.
Dr Niti Raizada, Principal Director – Medical Oncology & Hemato-Oncology, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, said, “Advanced lung cancer with brain metastases in a young patient is uncommon and historically associated with poor clinical outcomes. Identification of ALK-positive disease was a key turning point in his treatment as it enabled us to use precision-targeted therapy. ALK-positive cancers can respond well to advanced targeted medicines, significantly improving long-term outcomes when diagnosed early and treated appropriately. Sustained disease control beyond five years highlights the impact of timely molecular diagnosis, multidisciplinary care, and access to next-generation targeted medicines.”
Dr Madhusudan N, Senior Consultant, Radiation Oncology, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, added, “Managing ALK-positive lung cancer requires careful long-term surveillance and timely optimization of therapy. With coordinated care, we were able to control brain lesions effectively and support prolonged survival with good quality of life for the patient.”
Expressing her gratitude, the patient said, “When I was first diagnosed, I was worried about my future and my family. The doctors at Fortis guided me with confidence, care, and hope at every step. Today, being able to live a stable and active life years after diagnosis feels truly reassuring.”
Mr Gautham CB, Facility Director, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, said, “This case highlights the strength of multidisciplinary cancer care at Fortis Hospital Bannerghatta Road. Managing advanced lung cancer with long-term stability demonstrates our commitment to delivering personalized, evidence-based oncology care and improved patient outcomes.”
About Fortis Healthcare Limited
Fortis Healthcare Limited is a leading integrated healthcare delivery service provider in India. The healthcare verticals of the company primarily comprise hospitals, diagnostics, and day care specialty facilities. Currently, the company operates 36 healthcare facilities (including JVs and O&M facilities) across 12 states and union territories. The Company’s network comprises over 6,000 operational beds (including O&M beds) and 400 diagnostics labs.
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