An expert discusses how molecular profiling has become essential for most solid tumor cancers, particularly in lung cancer, where both tissue- and plasma-based testing using next-generation sequencing help identify actionable genomic targets and monitor resistance patterns.
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Hatim Husain, MD, emphasizes that molecular profiling has become essential for most solid tumor cancers, particularly in lung cancer treatment. For non–small cell lung cancer, comprehensive genomic testing is now standard practice to identify actionable genomic alterations that guide treatment decisions. The integration of both tissue-based testing and plasma-based next-generation sequencing provides clinicians with comprehensive molecular profiling capabilities to optimize patient care from diagnosis through treatment progression.
The discussion highlights how liquid and tissue samples work in a complementary fashion rather than as stand-alone options. When tissue samples are insufficient or turnaround time is critical, plasma testing can facilitate early identification of genomic alterations for first-line treatment decisions. Conversely, when plasma shows low tumor fraction, tissue testing becomes crucial to avoid false negative results and ensure comprehensive mutation detection for optimal patient management.
Comprehensive genomic testing serves multiple purposes throughout the patient care continuum, including up-front identification of actionable targets and genomic drivers for advanced cancers, as well as resistance monitoring at disease progression. This dual approach enables clinicians to understand why cancers may progress and identify relevant genomic changes that inform subsequent treatment strategies, ultimately improving patient outcomes through personalized, biomarker-driven therapeutic decisions.
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