[Molecular tumor boards - insights and perspectives]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Genomics
• Molecular Diagnostics

Background:

• The rise of molecular technologies and targeted therapies has led to the establishment of molecular tumor boards (MTBs).
• MTBs are essential for developing treatment recommendations based on molecular alterations not covered by approved targeted therapies.
• Current MTB practices exhibit significant heterogeneity across various aspects of their operation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of the current landscape of molecular tumor boards (MTBs).
• To identify and discuss the challenges associated with MTB implementation and function.
• To explore the potential of MTBs in advancing individualized cancer medicine.

Main Methods:

• Review of the spectrum of molecular tumor board (MTB) practices.
• Analysis of heterogeneity in MTB procedures, including inclusion criteria, composition, diagnostics, and reporting.
• Examination of quality assurance, economic, legal, and ethical considerations.

Main Results:

• Molecular tumor boards (MTBs) are increasingly important for personalized cancer therapy.
• Significant variability exists in MTB patient inclusion, board composition, diagnostic methods, and clinical integration.
• Challenges span quality assurance, knowledge acquisition, and economic, legal, and ethical dimensions.

Conclusions:

• Molecular tumor boards (MTBs) offer significant potential for individualized cancer medicine.
• Standardization of MTB procedures is needed to optimize their effectiveness and clinical utility.
• Addressing the multifaceted challenges of MTBs is crucial for realizing the full promise of precision oncology.