EGFR Mutational Analysis Test: Precision Medicine for Lung Cancer Treatment
Understanding EGFR Mutational Analysis
The EGFR Mutational Analysis Test represents a breakthrough in personalized cancer care, specifically designed for patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This advanced molecular diagnostic test examines the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) gene, which plays a pivotal role in cell growth, division, and survival. When mutations occur in this gene, they can drive uncontrolled cancer cell proliferation, making EGFR a critical therapeutic target in modern oncology.
EGFR mutations are particularly significant in lung adenocarcinoma, where they occur in approximately 10-15% of Caucasian patients and up to 50% of Asian patients with NSCLC. The identification of these specific genetic alterations has revolutionized lung cancer treatment, shifting the paradigm from traditional chemotherapy to targeted therapies that specifically attack cancer cells while sparing healthy tissues.
What the Test Detects and Measures
The EGFR Mutational Analysis Test employs sophisticated molecular techniques to identify specific genetic alterations in the EGFR gene, including:
- Common activating mutations in exons 18-21, particularly exon 19 deletions and exon 21 L858R point mutations
- Resistance mutations such as T790M that develop during treatment with first-generation EGFR inhibitors
- Rare EGFR mutations that may influence treatment response and clinical outcomes
- Mutation burden and variant allele frequency to assess tumor heterogeneity
Our comprehensive analysis utilizes multiple complementary technologies including polymerase chain reaction (PCR), fragment analysis, and advanced sequencing methods to ensure maximum sensitivity and accuracy in mutation detection.
Who Should Consider EGFR Mutational Testing
This test is particularly recommended for individuals who meet the following criteria:
Clinical Indications
- Newly diagnosed patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer, especially adenocarcinoma histology
- Patients with metastatic NSCLC being considered for first-line systemic therapy
- Individuals with recurrent or progressive lung cancer after initial treatment
- Never-smokers or light former smokers with lung adenocarcinoma
- Patients of Asian ethnicity with lung cancer due to higher prevalence of EGFR mutations
Symptoms and Clinical Presentation
- Persistent cough, chest pain, or shortness of breath with confirmed lung cancer diagnosis
- Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or respiratory symptoms in cancer patients
- Progressive disease despite conventional chemotherapy treatments
Benefits of EGFR Mutational Analysis
Undergoing EGFR mutation testing provides numerous clinical advantages for both patients and healthcare providers:
- Personalized Treatment Selection: Identifies patients who will benefit most from EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) like gefitinib, erlotinib, afatinib, and osimertinib
- Improved Treatment Outcomes: Patients with EGFR mutations treated with targeted therapy show significantly better response rates and progression-free survival compared to chemotherapy
- Reduced Treatment Toxicity: Targeted therapies typically cause fewer severe side effects than traditional chemotherapy
- Monitoring Treatment Resistance: Helps detect emerging resistance mutations that guide subsequent treatment decisions
- Informed Clinical Trial Eligibility: Provides essential information for enrollment in targeted therapy clinical trials
- Cost-Effective Care: Avoids unnecessary chemotherapy in patients likely to respond better to targeted treatments
Understanding Your Test Results
Interpreting EGFR mutation analysis requires careful consideration by your oncology team. Here’s a general guide to understanding your results:
Positive for EGFR Mutation
A positive result indicates the presence of clinically significant EGFR mutations, making you a candidate for EGFR-targeted therapy. Your oncologist will discuss specific treatment options based on the exact mutation identified.
Negative for EGFR Mutation
A negative result means no targetable EGFR mutations were detected. Your treatment plan may focus on alternative targeted therapies, immunotherapy, or chemotherapy based on other biomarker testing results.
Inconclusive Results
In some cases, insufficient tumor tissue or technical issues may lead to inconclusive results. Your doctor may recommend repeat biopsy or alternative testing methods.
Resistance Mutations
Detection of resistance mutations like T790M indicates progression on first-line EGFR inhibitors and may warrant switching to next-generation targeted therapies.
Test Pricing and Details
| Price Type | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Discount Price | $250 |
| Regular Price | $376 |
Turnaround Time
Sample submission: Monday or Thursday by 9:00 AM
Report availability: Friday or Tuesday
Sample Requirements
- Submit formalin fixed paraffin embedded block containing tumor tissue
- Paraffin block must contain minimum 10% tumor cells
- Ship at room temperature
- Provide a copy of the Histopathology report
- Duly filled NGS Test Requisition Form (Form 40) is mandatory
Nationwide Accessibility
GGC DNA has established testing facilities across the United States, ensuring convenient access to advanced genetic testing for patients in all major metropolitan areas including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, Dallas, San Jose, and many other cities. Our network of certified laboratories maintains the highest standards of quality and accuracy in molecular diagnostics.
Take the Next Step in Your Cancer Care Journey
Don’t leave your treatment decisions to chance. The EGFR Mutational Analysis Test provides critical information that can significantly impact your cancer treatment outcomes and quality of life. Our team of genetic specialists and oncology experts are ready to guide you through the testing process and help interpret your results within the context of your overall treatment plan.
Ready to schedule your EGFR Mutational Analysis Test?
Call our dedicated patient care team today at +1(267) 388-9828 or book your appointment online. Take control of your cancer treatment with precision medicine from GGC DNA.
