Final answer:
Mutations in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) are associated with squamous cell carcinoma of the lung, leading to inappropriate activation and increased cancer risk.
Step-by-step explanation:
The mutation in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is often associated with squamous cell carcinoma of the lung. EGFR is a receptor tyrosine kinase that plays a crucial role in the regulation of cell growth, wound healing, and tissue repair. When epidermal growth factor (EGF) binds to EGFR, it triggers a cascade of events leading to cell growth and division. However, when EGFR is mutated, it can cause uncontrolled cell growth, leading to cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma is a common type of skin cancer that can affect squamous cells in the epidermis and rarely metastasizes. Mutations in the EGFR can lead to inappropriate activation and increased risk of cancers such as squamous cell carcinoma of the lung.