Practical Methods for Integrating Genetic Testing Into Clinical Practice for Advanced Prostate Cancer

Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book. 2018 May 23:38:372-381. doi: 10.1200/EDBK_205441.

Abstract

Recent advances clearly demonstrate the potential clinical relevance of germline genetic testing and somatic genomic profiling in identifying possible therapeutic and/or clinical trial options, particularly in advanced prostate cancer. In addition, if a germline genetic mutation/pathogenic variant is identified, there may be important family implications and possible life-saving changes to healthcare management. However, there is substantial debate and uncertainty about how best to offer genetic testing services, which tests to use, which patients to test, what sequence of testing, what timing, by whom, and with what kind of follow-up. To help address this new area of potential benefit and confusion, we provide a practical overview of recent advances, discuss options and considerations for both germline and somatic testing, and offer practical advice on what providers should understand before referring and/or ordering testing, key discussion points for patients and families, and available genetics resources.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • DNA Repair
  • Disease Management
  • Genetic Counseling
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease
  • Genetic Testing* / methods
  • Genomics / methods
  • Germ-Line Mutation
  • Homologous Recombination
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mutation
  • Neoplasm Metastasis
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Patient Selection
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic
  • Precision Medicine / methods
  • Prognosis
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / mortality
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / therapy*

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor