[Genomic diagnosis in breast cancer practice]
1Department of Pathology, Nihon University School of Medicine, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan. masuda.shinobu@nihon-u.ac.jp
Abstract:
Significant targeted molecules for breast cancer treatment are hormone receptor and HER2. Since the concept of an "intrinsic subtype" was proposed, breast cancers have been treated according to subtypes including Luminal A, B, HER2 and triple negative. In this article, gene testing useful as a prognostic factor and to predict the chemotherapeutic effect on ER-positive breast cancers will be introduced, although it has not been approved in Japan. Gene testing is useful but expensive so far; therefore, it will be used in parallel to conventional tools, i.e. HE-stained sections and immunohistochemical methods.
Insights
Gene testing offers prognostic insights and predicts chemotherapy effectiveness for estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. This approach complements traditional methods despite not yet being approved in Japan.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Context:
- Breast cancer treatment relies on targeted molecules like hormone receptors and HER2.
- Intrinsic subtypes (Luminal A, B, HER2, triple-negative) guide current treatment strategies.
- Conventional diagnostic tools include HE-stained sections and immunohistochemistry.
Purpose:
- To introduce gene testing as a prognostic factor for breast cancer.
- To evaluate gene testing's utility in predicting chemotherapeutic effects in ER-positive breast cancer.
- To discuss the integration of gene testing with existing diagnostic methods.
Summary:
- Gene testing can serve as a prognostic factor and predict chemotherapy response in ER-positive breast cancer.
- This molecular diagnostic tool is not yet approved in Japan.
- Gene testing is proposed as an adjunct to conventional methods like HE staining and immunohistochemistry due to its cost.
Impact:
- Gene testing provides valuable information for personalized breast cancer treatment decisions.
- It enhances the prediction of treatment outcomes beyond current diagnostic capabilities.
- The findings support the potential future use of gene testing in clinical practice, pending approval and cost-effectiveness considerations.
