US physician perspective on the use of biomarker and ctDNA testing in patients with melanoma
March 14, 2024
Abstract
New treatments have increased survival of patients with melanoma, and methods to monitor patients throughout the disease process are needed. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is a predictive and prognostic biomarker that may allow routine, real-time monitoring of disease status. We surveyed 44 US physicians to understand their preferences and practice patterns for biomarker and ctDNA testing in their patients with melanoma. Tumor biomarker testing was often ordered in stage IIIA-IV patients. Barriers to biomarker testing include insufficient tissue (60%) and lack of insurance coverage (54%). ctDNA testing was ordered by 16–18% of physicians for stages II-IV. Reasons for not using ctDNA testing included lack of prospective data (41%), ctDNA testing used for research only (18%), and others. Physicians (≥74%) believed that ctDNA assays could help with monitoring and treatment selection throughout the disease process. Physicians consider ctDNA testing potentially valuable for clinical decision-making but cited concerns that should be addressed.
Source:
Rachel A. Fischer, Isabel Ryan, Kristine De La Torre, Cody Barnett, Viren S. Sehgal, Joan B. Levy, Jason J. Luke, Andrew S. Poklepovic, Marc S. Hurlbert, US physician perspective on the use of biomarker and ctDNA testing in patients with melanoma, Critical Reviews in Oncology/Hematology, Volume 196, 2024, 104289,
ISSN 1040-8428, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.critrevonc.2024.104289.