Turning Fluids into Data for Precision Oncology: A Multidisciplinary Tumor Board Approach to Malignant Pleural...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pulmonology
• Molecular Diagnostics

Background:

• Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) is a complex challenge in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
• Effective MPE management integrates imaging, therapeutics, and molecular profiling.
• Liquid biopsy from pleural fluid shows promise for enhanced diagnostic sensitivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current clinical management strategies for MPE in metastatic NSCLC.
• To evaluate the feasibility, reliability, and reproducibility of pleural fluid molecular testing.
• To synthesize evidence from a multidisciplinary tumor board perspective.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of existing literature on MPE management.
• Integration of diagnostic imaging, procedural interventions, and molecular profiling data.
• Focus on cell-free DNA analysis in pleural effusions.

Main Results:

• MPE presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges but offers prognostic/predictive information.
• Pleural fluid molecular testing, particularly cell-free DNA, is a promising tool.
• Integrating imaging, procedures, and molecular data optimizes patient management.

Conclusions:

• MPE management in NSCLC is shifting towards a multidisciplinary, precision-based approach.
• Liquid biopsy technology is analytically robust and clinically feasible for routine use.
• Biofluid analysis can improve patient care, reduce procedures, and enhance cost-effectiveness.