In part 1 of this podcast series, the Oncology Brothers moderate a discussion on pre-analytical phase challenges and biomarker testing in prostate cancer.
They are joined by GU cancer genomics expert Dr Alexander Wyatt and medical oncologist Dr Petros Grivas, who share their views on why identifying genetic alterations is so important in prostate cancer and explore common pre-analytical phase challenges and biomarker testing approaches.
We are pleased to share that this podcast is endorsed by the Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) and The National Alliance of State Prostate Cancer Coalitions (NASPCC). You can find out more about AMP at www.amp.org and NASPCC at https://naspcc.org/.
Clinical Takeaways
-
Testing for alterations in DNA damage response genes (e.g., BRCA1, BRCA2, ATM), MSI-high and TMB is important and should be conducted as early as possible, typically at the point of diagnosis and at progression wherever possible. This enables optimal treatment selection and monitoring for patients with prostate cancer
-
Tumour biopsy is commonly used for genetic somatic testing in prostate cancer. Germline testing is also very important for both the patient and to help identify whether unaffected family members may be at risk of cancer (through cascade testing)
-
Acknowledging and addressing potential pre-analytical challenges (e.g., during patient preparation, sample collection, transportation, preparation, and storage) is important to mitigate against poor testing results
-
ctDNA testing, especially at the time of diagnosis of advanced disease, can be very helpful. Particularly when tumour tissue samples are not feasible or adequate, but also to complement tumour tissue by trying to capture more tumour heterogeneity. It is associated with a faster turnaround time and less logistical burden compared to tissue biopsy