Opinion
Video
Gene Expression in Desmoid Treatment
Experts discuss the controversial role of gene expression patterns in desmoid tumor treatment decisions, highlighting challenges and potential impact on personalized care.
This is a video synopsis/summary of a Peer Exchange involving Ryan Haumschild, PharmD, MS, MBA; Tony Phillip, MD; Mrinal Gounder, MD; Ravin Ratan, MD, MEd; and Derek Van Amerongen, MD, MS.
Gounder addresses the role of gene expression patterns in optimizing treatment approaches for desmoid tumors. He highlights the controversy surrounding β-catenin mutations, emphasizing that although sophisticated genetic testing exists, it hasn’t significantly affected prognosis or treatment decisions. Haumschild underscores the implications for coverage determinations and medical policy in the face of evolving and controversial genetic data. Van Amerongen, focusing on health plan considerations, acknowledges the challenges in discerning impactful genetic tests and emphasizes consulting geneticists and research experts. He stresses the importance of evidence-based decisions to ensure genetic testing benefits patients and directly affects treatment algorithms. The discussion culminates with Gounder emphasizing the value of genetic testing in guiding decisions, such as avoiding invasive procedures such as colonoscopies for certain patients based on genetic information. The conversation reflects the ongoing complexities with incorporating genetic testing into desmoid tumor management while emphasizing its potential value in specific clinical contexts.
Video synopsis is AI generated and reviewed by AJMC® editorial staff.
