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Updated: Jul 11, 2025
Author Spotlight: Advancements in Molecular Biomarker Testing for Non-Squamous Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Published on: September 8, 2023
Optimizing tissue stewardship in non-small cell lung cancer to support molecular characterization and treatment
Keith M Kerr1, Lukas Bubendorf2, Fernando Lopez-Rios3
1Department of Pathology, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and Aberdeen University Medical School, Aberdeen, UK.
Abstract:
Many patients with non-small cell lung cancer do not receive guideline-recommended, biomarker-directed therapy, despite the potential for improved clinical outcomes. Access to timely, accurate, and comprehensive molecular profiling, including targetable protein overexpression, is essential to allow fully informed treatment decisions to be taken. In turn, this requires optimal tissue management to protect and maximize the use of this precious finite resource. Here, a group of leading thoracic pathologists recommend factors to consider for optimal tissue management. Starting from when lung cancer is first suspected, keeping predictive biomarker testing in the front of the mind should drive the development of practices and procedures that conserve tissue appropriately to support molecular characterization and treatment selection.
Insights
Optimal tissue management is crucial for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Conserving tissue ensures comprehensive molecular profiling for effective biomarker-directed therapy and improved treatment selection.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pathology
- Molecular Diagnostics
Background:
- Many non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients miss guideline-recommended, biomarker-directed therapies.
- This gap can lead to suboptimal clinical outcomes.
- Access to comprehensive molecular profiling is vital for informed treatment decisions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To recommend factors for optimal tissue management in NSCLC.
- To emphasize proactive consideration of predictive biomarker testing.
- To ensure sufficient tissue for molecular characterization and treatment selection.
Main Methods:
- A consensus recommendation from leading thoracic pathologists.
- Focus on factors influencing tissue management from initial suspicion of lung cancer.
- Integration of biomarker testing needs into tissue handling procedures.
Main Results:
- Optimal tissue management practices are essential to preserve tissue.
- Proactive planning conserves tissue for comprehensive molecular profiling.
- This supports accurate biomarker identification and personalized treatment selection.
Conclusions:
- Thoracic pathologists provide recommendations for optimal tissue management in NSCLC.
- Prioritizing biomarker testing throughout the process is key.
- Effective tissue management maximizes the utility of this finite resource for patient care.
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