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Biomarker Testing for Actionable Alterations in NSCLC-Perspectives from US-Based Academic and Community Oncologists:
1Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2220 Pierce Ave, 780 PRB, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA. wade.t.iams@vumc.org.
Abstract:
The identification of actionable oncogenic driver mutations in patients with non-small cell lung cancer impacts therapy selection, and appropriate therapy administration results in improvements in clinical outcomes. Although biomarker testing for actionable oncogenic driver mutations is recommended in national and international guidelines, there are still unmet needs in the real world. Through this podcast we provide, from a US perspective, an overview and discuss challenges in biomarker testing from both an academic and a community oncologist viewpoint. We describe the importance of comprehensive testing, actionable biomarkers as recommended by guidelines such as National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN®) and European Society for Medical Oncology, types of tests and assessment techniques for detection of actionable biomarkers, and challenges in testing. These challenges include the lack of awareness of the biomarker testing guidelines among physicians, inconsistent reimbursement, longer turnaround time resulting in delays in therapy initiation, and nihilism associated with particular patient characteristics. To tackle these challenges, we offer recommendations from the perspective of our own clinical settings.
Insights
Biomarker testing for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is crucial for selecting targeted therapies and improving patient outcomes. This podcast addresses real-world challenges in biomarker testing for NSCLC, offering practical recommendations.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genomics
- Molecular Diagnostics
Background:
- Actionable oncogenic driver mutations in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) guide therapy selection, improving clinical outcomes.
- Biomarker testing is recommended by guidelines but faces real-world unmet needs.
- A US perspective on challenges in biomarker testing for NSCLC is presented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of biomarker testing in NSCLC from academic and community oncologist viewpoints.
- To discuss the importance of comprehensive testing and actionable biomarkers.
- To identify and address challenges in real-world biomarker testing for NSCLC.
Main Methods:
- Discussion of guideline-recommended actionable biomarkers (NCCN, ESMO).
- Overview of test types and assessment techniques for actionable biomarkers.
- Analysis of challenges from academic and community oncologist perspectives.
Main Results:
- Key challenges identified: physician awareness, reimbursement inconsistencies, long turnaround times, and patient-related nihilism.
- Recommendations are offered to address these testing challenges.
- The importance of comprehensive biomarker testing for NSCLC is emphasized.
Conclusions:
- Addressing challenges in biomarker testing is essential for optimal NSCLC patient care.
- Improved awareness, streamlined processes, and consistent reimbursement can enhance biomarker testing.
- Collaborative efforts are needed to overcome barriers to effective NSCLC biomarker testing.
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