Variations in Genomic Testing in Non-small Cell Lung Carcinoma: A Healthcare Professional Survey of Current Practices in the UK

Oncologist. 2023 Aug 3;28(8):e699-e702. doi: 10.1093/oncolo/oyad134.

Abstract

This survey aims to understand the current UK practice for non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) and identify barriers that may impact patient treatment and outcomes. In March-June 2021, 57 interviews were conducted with healthcare professionals involved in the secondary care management of patients with NSCLC. Most respondents performed genetic testing at onsite and non-genomic laboratory hub (GLH) offsite locations. The most common genetic tests were EGFR T790M variant (100%), EGFR exon 18-21 covered (95%) and BRAF (93%). No targeted therapy (TT) available (69%), lack of access to a TT (54%) or excessive molecular testing turnaround times (39%) were the most common reasons for using an immuno-oncology therapy over a TT in the first-line setting. The survey highlights variation in mutation testing practices across the UK, which may impact treatment decisions and contribute to health outcome inequality.

Keywords: management; non-small cell lung carcinoma; oncogenic genetic testing; real world practice; treatment.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung* / pathology
  • Delivery of Health Care
  • ErbB Receptors / genetics
  • Genetic Testing
  • Health Care Surveys
  • Humans
  • Lung Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Mutation
  • Protein Kinase Inhibitors
  • United Kingdom

Substances

  • ErbB Receptors
  • Protein Kinase Inhibitors