DNA OncoNex – Esophageal Cancer
Esophageal cancer is the 8th most common cancer worldwide and ranks as the 6th leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Each year, a significant number of patients are diagnosed with esophageal cancer, with the prognosis often being poor due to late-stage detection and limited treatment options. DNA OncoNex offers an advanced genomic solution for esophageal cancer through Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), providing key insights into the molecular landscape of the disease and offering personalized treatment options based on genetic profiling.
DNA OncoNex is a comprehensive NGS-based assay designed to detect mutations across 100 genes associated with esophageal cancer. This targeted approach allows for the identification of novel genetic aberrations, including potential therapeutic targets, which can improve treatment efficacy. Both major types of esophageal cancer—esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC)—are aggressive in nature, often presenting with advanced disease at the time of diagnosis.
In both ESCC and EAC, conventional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation often result in suboptimal patient outcomes. However, advancements in molecular profiling have revealed specific mutations and genomic alterations that can guide targeted therapies, offering a new horizon in the treatment of esophageal cancer.
DNA OncoNex’s panel analyzes key mutations such as EGFR amplification, which has been detected in a significant percentage of ESCC patients and is linked to adverse prognosis. With comprehensive genomic profiling, clinicians can now access a precise understanding of the genetic factors driving cancer progression, allowing for more effective, personalized treatment plans.
Clinical Utility
The DNA OncoNex NGS panel offers several clinical benefits for esophageal cancer management, transforming the approach to diagnosis, treatment, and patient care:
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Identification of Driver Mutations: DNA OncoNex detects mutations in genes that cause cells to become cancerous and contribute to tumor growth and metastasis. Identifying these driver mutations is crucial for tailoring treatment strategies and improving patient outcomes.
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Drug Profiling for Chemotherapy & Targeted Drugs: Understanding the specific genetic mutations in a patient’s tumor can help oncologists choose the most effective chemotherapy or targeted drug therapies. Targeted therapies have revolutionized cancer treatment by attacking specific molecular targets, thereby reducing side effects and improving survival rates.
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Predictive Genomic Biomarkers: DNA OncoNex helps identify predictive genomic biomarkers that guide the therapeutic process, providing actionable insights into which drugs may work best for each patient. By leveraging these biomarkers, oncologists can make informed decisions on therapy, maximizing the chances of success.
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Detection of Known and Novel Variants: The NGS panel offers a wide scope of coverage, detecting both known and novel genetic variants in esophageal cancer. This multigene approach provides a comprehensive picture of a patient’s genetic profile, speeding up the diagnostic process and ensuring more economical treatment options by avoiding unnecessary or ineffective treatments.
When to Consider DNA OncoNex for Esophageal Cancer
Patients should consider the DNA OncoNex test in the following scenarios:
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Diagnosed with Esophageal Cancer: Patients diagnosed with either esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) or esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) should consider genomic profiling to identify potential actionable mutations and inform treatment plans.
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Advanced-Stage Cancer: Those with advanced-stage esophageal cancer who have shown poor responses to traditional therapies may benefit from NGS testing to uncover potential targeted therapy options.
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High-Risk Individuals: People with a family history of esophageal cancer or other risk factors like Barrett‘s esophagus or chronic acid reflux (GERD) may benefit from early genetic screening to detect precancerous changes and begin preventive measures early.
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Recurrent Cancer: Patients with recurrent esophageal cancer may undergo genomic testing to understand new mutations that may have emerged and explore alternative therapeutic options.
MapmyGenome Offerings
At MapmyGenome, our DNA OncoNex test is designed to provide in-depth genetic insights into esophageal cancer, offering a personalized and data-driven approach to treatment. Our offerings include:
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Comprehensive Genetic Screening: We focus on approximately 100 key cancer-associated genes relevant to esophageal cancer, providing a broad and detailed analysis of mutations and genomic aberrations.
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Screening for Clinically Significant Genes: Our test is based on the latest guidelines from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), ensuring that we target the most clinically relevant genes in esophageal cancer management.
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Genetic Counseling: After the test, our certified genetic counselors are available to explain the results in detail, helping patients and doctors understand the implications of the findings. We also discuss potential treatment options and guide patients on next steps, depending on the genetic insights gained.
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Accurate Reporting: We report all pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants following the stringent guidelines recommended by the American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG). This ensures that clinicians receive high-quality, actionable information.
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Advanced Bioinformatics: Our team of bioinformaticians utilizes cutting-edge analysis techniques to ensure the accuracy of genetic data, providing clinicians with reliable insights for patient care.
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Fast Turnaround: We understand the urgency in cancer care. Our streamlined testing and analysis process ensures that results are delivered quickly, allowing for timely decision-making and treatment planning.
Test Specifications
| Technique | Coverage | Variant types | TAT | Sample requirements |
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| NGS | 800 - 1000X | SNV | 3 - 4 weeks | FFPE (Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded) Sample - Somatic cases, Blood Sample - Germline cases |