The Utility of Next-Generation Sequencing in Advanced Breast and Gynecologic Cancers

Terrell E Jones1, Jian Zou2, George C Tseng2

  • 1Department of Pathology, Presbyterian University Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.

Abstract

Insights

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) identified actionable mutations in 73% of advanced breast and gynecologic cancers. However, the 38% clinical action rate did not improve patient survival.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Genomics
  • Molecular Diagnostics

Background:

  • Next-generation sequencing (NGS) offers potential for identifying genetic alterations actionable with targeted therapies.
  • Assessing the clinical utility of NGS in advanced malignancies is crucial for treatment decisions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the impact of NGS testing on advanced breast and gynecologic cancers.
  • To determine the clinical action rate and survival outcomes associated with NGS results.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of 108 patients with advanced breast and gynecologic malignancies undergoing NGS testing (2015-2019).
  • Calculation of the NGS clinical action rate based on documented clinical actions for actionable results.
  • Survival analysis comparing groups based on NGS results and treatment received.

Main Results:

  • NGS identified actionable mutations in 73% (79/108) of cases.
  • The overall clinical action rate for NGS testing was 38% (30/79 actionable cases).
  • No significant difference in survival was observed between patients with actionable NGS results (treated or untreated) and those with non-actionable results (P = .5160).

Conclusions:

  • NGS testing in advanced breast and gynecologic cancers yields a 38% clinical action rate.
  • Despite identifying actionable mutations, NGS did not translate to improved survival in this patient cohort.