A2 Refereed review article in a scientific journal
Gene-Guided Treatment Decision-Making in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer - A Systematic Review
Authors: Saarenheimo Jatta, Andersen Heidi, Eigeliene Natalja, Jekunen Antti
Publisher: FRONTIERS MEDIA SA
Publication year: 2021
Journal: Frontiers in Oncology
Journal name in source: FRONTIERS IN ONCOLOGY
Journal acronym: FRONT ONCOL
Article number: ARTN 754427
Volume: 11
Number of pages: 7
ISSN: 2234-943X
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fonc.2021.754427
Self-archived copy’s web address: https://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/67853379
Decision-making in cancer treatment is part of clinicians' everyday work, and it is especially challenging in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, for whom decisions are clearly dependent on gene alterations or the lack of them. The multimodality of treatments, involvement of gene alterations in defining systemic cancer therapies, and heterogeneous nature of tumors and their responsiveness provide extra challenges. This article reviews the existing literature to 2021 with extra effort to explore the role of genes and gene-driven therapies as part of decision-making. The process and elements in this decision-making participation are recognized and discussed comprehensively. Genetic health literacy aids are provided as a part of the review. Our systematic review, data extraction and analysis found that with current methods and broad gene panels, patients benefit from early molecular testing of liquid biopsy samples. An estimated 79% of liquid biopsy samples showed somatic mutations based on 8 original studies included in the systematic review. When both liquid biopsy samples and tissue samples are evaluated, the sensitivity to detect targetable mutations in NSCLC increases. We recommend early testing with liquid biopsy. Additional effort is needed for the logistics of obtaining and evaluating samples, and tissue samples should be saved and stored for tests that are not possible from liquid biopsy.
Downloadable publication This is an electronic reprint of the original article. |