Clinical requests for molecular tests: the 3-step evidence check

Area of Science:

• Pathology
• Molecular Biology
• Clinical Diagnostics

Background:

• Molecular testing is rapidly expanding in volume and complexity.
• Molecular tests are crucial for personalized medicine and tailored patient treatments.
• Pathology practices may be unprepared for the increasing demand for molecular diagnostics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide pathologists with limited molecular training a simple algorithm for evaluating molecular test appropriateness.
• To offer recommendations for proactive review and management of molecular test requests.
• To educate pathologists on the transformation of practice in the molecular and digital age.

Main Methods:

• Development of a straightforward algorithm for assessing molecular test requests.
• Inclusion of strategies for proactive management of laboratory test orders.
• Content derived from a College of American Pathologists webinar.

Main Results:

• A practical algorithm is presented to guide pathologists in test selection.
• Recommendations are provided for enhanced review processes of molecular diagnostics.
• The principles are applicable to various laboratory tests, including those sent to external labs.

Conclusions:

• Pathologists require accessible tools to navigate the complexities of molecular diagnostics.
• Implementing a structured approach ensures appropriate utilization of advanced laboratory testing.
• Adapting to molecular medicine is essential for modern pathology practice.