In a nutshell
This study examined whether a new genetic test could help predict long term prognosis in patients with early stage lung cancer. Such a test may help determine the need for chemotherapy after surgery.
Some background
Early stage (I and II) lung cancer can generally be treated by surgically removing the tumor. Chemotherapy is sometimes given after the operation in order to lower the risk of recurrence and improve long-term outcomes. However, which patients might benefit most from chemotherapy in addition to surgery is not yet clear.
The 15 gene prognostic classifier (15GPC) uses a sample of the tumor removed during surgery. The test identifies 15 different genes with prognostic significance within the cancer cells, and provides an estimated risk score.
Methods & findings
The present study was performed using 181 samples collected from patients with early stage lung cancer (IA, IB and II). The 15GPC test results were checked against survival data (over a 5 year follow-up). The test was found to predict survival in early stage lung cancer regardless of the cancer cell type (adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma or others). The prediction was most accurate in identifying stage I high risk patients.
The bottom line
This study showed that the 15GPC test accurately identified high risk patients with early stage lung cancer. Results may help determine which patients would benefit most from additional treatments following surgery (such as chemotherapy).
The fine print
Larger trials are needed to determine the exact role of this genetic test in early stage lung cancer treatment. High risk scores should be interpreted while considering the entire clinical picture of each individual patient.
What’s next?
Consult with your physician regarding the benefits of genetic profiling tests in guiding disease care.
Published By :
Journal of Thoracic Oncology
Date :
Dec 03, 2013
