Biomarkers

On May 6, 2020, the FDA approved Tabrecta (capmatinib; from Novartis), an oral kinase inhibitor, for adults with metastatic (spreading) non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Non–small-cell lung cancer, or NSCLC, is the most common form of lung cancer, accounting for about 80% to 85% of all lung cancer cases in the United States.

Understanding the specific biomarkers associated with each patient’s cancer helps to select the best therapy that targets that unique biomarker to improve the chance of survival for that patient.

Genetic testing, genomic testing, molecular profiling—how can you make sense of these terms to ensure you receive the best test and best treatment in this era of targeted therapies? A group of experts and patient advocates provide answers to these questions.

New treatments are becoming available for patients with cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer). Testing for specific biomarkers is crucial to ensure each patient receives the best available treatment for any associated biomarker.

Patients with advanced lung cancer should be tested for the 5 most common biomarkers so they may receive the best treatment options for their disease.

In her Introduction to the special edition of CONQUER titled Understanding Biomarkers & Molecular Testing, Lillie D. Shockney, RN, BS, MAS, ONN-CG, briefly explains what biomarkers are, why they are important, and what you should know about them.  

One-size-fits-all medicine is a thing of the past. Cancer, at its core, is a genetic disease. Today’s advances in cancer research mean that doctors can now tailor a personalized treatment to the patient’s specific cancer type.