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A Need for More Molecular Profiling in Brain Metastases.
Erica Shen1,2, Amanda E D Van Swearingen3,4, Meghan J Price5
1Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, United States.
Frontiers in Oncology
|February 11, 2022
Summary
Biomarker analysis in brain metastases (BrM) is crucial. Assessing BrM molecular features can reveal new treatment targets and guide therapy, improving outcomes for patients with this growing public health concern.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Pathology
- Translational Medicine
Background:
- Brain metastases (BrM) pose a growing public health challenge as local disease control improves.
- Molecular profiles of BrM often differ from primary tumors due to clonal evolution and treatment pressures.
- Biomarker information from BrM is not routinely acquired, despite its potential clinical significance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence of biomarker discordance between primary tumors, extracranial metastases, and BrM.
- To highlight the clinical value of assessing biomarkers directly in BrM.
- To emphasize the importance of BrM biomarker analysis for developing improved treatment strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies reporting biomarker discordance in BrM.
- Analysis of evidence supporting the clinical utility of BrM biomarker assessment.
- Discussion of the implications of BrM molecular profiling for patient management.
Main Results:
- Significant discordance exists in clinically actionable biomarkers between primary tumors and BrM.
- BrM biopsy/resection, despite risks, can identify unique treatment targets.
- Biomarker data from BrM can inform real-time treatment decisions and provide prognostic information.
Conclusions:
- Assessing biomarkers in BrM is critical for personalized treatment strategies.
- Understanding BrM molecular drivers can lead to more effective therapies.
- Biomarker analysis in BrM is essential for improving outcomes in this patient population.
