When indicated, we offer comprehensive genetic testing to our patients with lung cancer. In many cases, this testing can be performed on archived biopsy tissue that was already obtained. If there is available biopsy tissue at another institution, we will have that sample sent to our Molecular Pathology department for genetic analysis. In some cases, if there is insufficient tissue available for testing, we may discuss the utility of performing another biopsy to obtain an additional sample of tumor so that our genetic analyses can be done.
When the genetic results from your tumor return, we will review the best, most-targeted treatment options available for your type of lung cancer. In some cases, we may recommend medications that are already FDA-approved, and in other cases, we might offer participation in a clinical trial with an experimental treatment that may benefit patients whose tumors contain certain mutations.
