NSCLC patients were classified into six groups according to the ascending copy number of the EGFR gene, and individuals with EGFR high polysomy or gene amplification (defined as EGFR FISH-positive) had a significantly higher response rate, and a significantly longer time-to-progression (TTP) and survival than patients with no EGFR gene gain (defined EGFR FISH-negative). The gene discussed is EGFR; the disease is non-small cell lung carcinoma.