Multigene testing by Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) in solid tumors offers several advantages in the field of cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. Here are some key advantages:
Comprehensive Analysis: NGS allows simultaneous analysis of multiple genes in a single test. This comprehensive approach can identify a broad range of genetic alterations, including mutations, insertions, deletions, and rearrangements, providing a more complete picture of the tumor’s genomic profile.
Identification of Targetable Mutations: By analyzing multiple genes, NGS helps identify specific genetic mutations that may be targeted by existing or emerging therapies. This information can guide treatment decisions and potentially improve patient outcomes.
Personalized Treatment Planning: Multigene testing through NGS facilitates personalized treatment strategies by identifying specific genetic alterations that may respond to targeted therapies. This approach is especially crucial in the era of precision medicine, where treatments are tailored to the unique genomic characteristics of an individual’s tumor.
Prognostic Insights: NGS can provide valuable prognostic information by identifying genetic markers associated with the aggressiveness of the tumor. This information helps clinicians assess the risk of disease progression and make more informed decisions regarding the intensity and type of treatment.
Guidance for Clinical Trials: Comprehensive genomic profiling using NGS can help match patients with appropriate clinical trials based on their specific genetic alterations. This expands access to novel therapies and experimental treatments, potentially offering new options for patients with limited standard treatment options.
Early Detection of Resistance Mechanisms: Monitoring the genetic changes in a tumor over time through NGS allows for the early detection of resistance mechanisms that may develop during the course of treatment. This information can inform adjustments to the treatment plan to overcome resistance and improve therapeutic efficacy.
Cost-Effective and Efficient: While NGS was initially considered expensive, advancements in technology have led to reduced costs, making it more accessible. Additionally, the efficiency of NGS allows for the analysis of a large number of genes simultaneously, saving time compared to traditional methods that analyze one gene at a time.
Minimal Sample Requirement: NGS can often work with smaller sample sizes, which is beneficial when dealing with limited tissue availability, such as in biopsies or fine-needle aspirates. While multigene testing with NGS offers numerous advantages, it is important to consider the challenges associated with the interpretation of complex genomic data, ethical considerations, and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration in implementing these technologies in clinical practice.