Improving molecular testing and personalized medicine in non-small-cell lung cancer in Ontario.

Lim C1, Sekhon HS2, Cutz JC3, Hwang DM4, Kamel-Reid S4,5, Carter RF3,6, Santos GDC4, Waddell T7, Binnie M8, Patel M9, Paul N10, Chung T10, Brade A11, El-Maraghi R12, Sit C13, Tsao MS4, Leighl NB1.

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Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Although molecular testing has become standard in managing advanced nonsquamous non-small-cell lung cancer (nsclc), most patients undergo minimally invasive procedures, and the diagnostic tumour specimens available for testing are usually limited. A knowledge translation initiative to educate diagnostic specialists about sampling techniques and laboratory processes was undertaken to improve the uptake and application of molecular testing in advanced lung cancer.

METHODS:

A multidisciplinary panel of physician experts including pathologists, respirologists, interventional thoracic radiologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists developed a specialty-specific education program, adapting international clinical guidelines to the local Ontario context. Expert recommendations from the program are reported here.

RESULTS:

Panel experts agreed that specialists procuring samples for lung cancer diagnosis should choose biopsy techniques that maximize tumour cellularity, and that conservation strategies to maximize tissue for molecular testing should be used in tissue processing. The timeliness of molecular reporting can be improved by pathologist-initiated reflex testing upon confirmation of nonsquamous nsclc and by prompt transportation of specimens to designated molecular diagnostic centres. To coordinate timely molecular testing and optimal treatment, collaboration and communication between all clinicians involved in diagnosing patients with advanced lung cancer are mandatory.