Implementation and Outcomes of a Molecular Tumor Board at Herbert-Herman Cancer Center, Sparrow Hospital

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Genomics
• Precision Medicine

Background:

• Molecular tumor boards (MTBs) are increasingly utilized to interpret complex genomic data for cancer patients.
• Evaluating the outcomes of MTB consultations is crucial for optimizing precision oncology strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the experience and outcomes of 54 cancer cases presented to a Molecular Tumor Board.
• To assess the rate of actionable molecular alterations and the impact of MTB recommendations on patient treatment.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 54 cancer cases presented to an MTB between July 2017 and April 2018.
• Cases included patients with advanced cancer who had failed or were expected to fail standard therapies.
• Exclusion of patients with obvious mutations eligible for specific clinical trials; virtual case presentations and molecular pathway discussions were conducted.

Main Results:

• 81% of the 54 cases presented had at least one potentially actionable molecular alteration.
• 22% of patients received genomically matched therapy based on MTB recommendations, with 50% of those treated remaining alive.
• Genomically matched therapy or clinical trial options were offered to 46% of patients.

Conclusions:

• Molecular tumor boards can identify actionable alterations in a high percentage of advanced cancer cases.
• Multidisciplinary collaboration and improved physician education are essential for effective implementation of molecular diagnostics in oncology.
• Further integration of molecular diagnostics and multidisciplinary input is needed for consensus-based treatment decisions in oncology.