16 Dec Results of Molecular Testing Highly Influenced By Type of Genetic Test
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Dr. C. Anthony Blau
C. Anthony Blau, M.D.
Professor of Medicine, Division of Hematology
University of Washington School of Medicine
Co-Director, University of Washington Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine
Director, Center for Cancer Innovation
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?
Response: Matching cancer treatment to the molecular composition of a patient’s tumor holds promise for making cancer therapies more effective, and molecular testing for cancer patients has become widespread in recent years.
Recently molecular testing of tumor samples has been complemented by blood tests that characterize tumor DNA that has been shed into the bloodstream. Blood tests are attractive because they are much less invasive than obtaining tumor tissue via biopsies.
MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings?
Response: In our study we compared results from commercial testing of tumor tissue (through Foundation One) and blood (from Guardant Gealth) in 9 cancer patients, and found marked discrepancies in the reported results, both with respect to the genetic changes identified, and with respect to the drugs that were recommended.
We find that the results of molecular testing are markedly influenced by the decision of which genetic test to apply. While our findings are preliminary, further research is needed to understand and resolve these discrepancies, as these tests are used in tens of thousands of cancer patients in the US each year.
MedicalResearch.com: What should readers take away from your report?
Response: We find that the results of molecular testing are markedly influenced by the decision of which genetic test to apply.
MedicalResearch.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this study?
Response: While our findings are preliminary, further research is needed to understand and resolve these discrepancies, as these tests are used in tens of thousands of cancer patients in the US each year.
MedicalResearch.com: Thank you for your contribution to the MedicalResearch.com community.
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Last Updated on December 16, 2016 by Marie Benz MD FAAD