Molecular Testing for Gliomas
- Molecular testing looks at the tumor’s DNA to identify specific mutations that can guide treatment.
- Understanding mutations like the IDH mutation allows doctors to choose more effective therapies.
- Precision medicine is made possible through molecular testing. It helps identify treatments tailored to the individual tumor.
- Molecular testing opens doors to new treatments and clinical trials, giving hope for better outcomes.
Dr. Reid Thompson, Chair of Neurosurgery at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, tells SurvivorNet that this testing has changed the way gliomas are treated.
Read MoreWhat is Molecular Testing?
Molecular testing is a process where doctors analyze the DNA of the tumor cells to look for specific mutations or genetic changes. These genetic changes, often called “biomarkers,” help doctors understand how the tumor behaves, its likely response to different treatments, and how aggressively it might grow. “Molecular testing allows us to understand the tumor on a deeper level. We’re looking for unique markers that can guide us in making more informed decisions about treatment,” Dr. Thompson explains.With molecular testing, doctors can uncover information that can lead to more effective, targeted therapies, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Why is Molecular Testing Important for Gliomas?
Gliomas are a diverse group of tumors, so not all gliomas are the same. Some grow slowly and respond well to certain treatments, while others are more aggressive and require a different approach. Molecular testing provides doctors with the information to correctly diagnose which type of glioma the patient has and choose the best treatment moving forward.
According to Dr. Thompson, “With molecular testing, we’re no longer treating gliomas as a one-size-fits-all disease. We now know that a glioma with an IDH mutation, for example, behaves very differently from one without it, and this difference can completely change our approach to treatment.”
Gliomas of certain grades and with specific mutations, like the IDH mutation, may respond well to certain drugs that can slow tumor growth vs. those that do not express that mutation. Identifying mutations like IDH and others can lead to more precise treatments and give patients options that may not have been available without this testing.
How Molecular Testing Guides Treatment
When doctors know the specific genetic mutations in a glioma, they can tailor the treatment to target those changes. This approach is often called “precision medicine” because it’s focused on treating the unique aspects of each patient’s tumor. In some cases, molecular testing may reveal that a patient is a candidate for a targeted therapy or a clinical trial for a new treatment.
“We’re looking at the molecular makeup of the tumor and using that information to decide if the patient might benefit from chemotherapy, radiation, a clinical trial, or a new targeted therapy. It’s revolutionizing how we approach gliomas,” Dr. Thompson explains.
This may mean that a patient with a specific mutation could avoid unnecessary treatments that wouldn’t be effective for their type of tumor. Instead, they can focus on therapies that have the best chance of success against their disease.
Common Glioma Mutations: IDH and Beyond
One of the most well-known mutations in gliomas is the IDH mutation. Gliomas with an IDH mutation often grow more slowly and may respond well to certain therapies, making them a candidate for more targeted treatment options. It is worth noting that the tumor grade is a factor in these targeted treatment options. Knowing whether a glioma has the IDH mutation can help doctors choose treatments that are likely to be more effective for the patient.
Other mutations in gliomas can also be seen with molecular testing. This includes mutations such as the TERT, ATRX, a 1p/19q co-deletion, and many more that are still being discovered. All of these genetic changes that are appreciated with molecular testing and while not necessarily shaping the treatment plan may play a role in identifying treatment options.
Molecular Testing: Shaping the Future
Molecular testing isn’t just about choosing the right treatment today; it’s also about expanding treatment options for the future. By understanding the genetics of gliomas better, researchers can develop new drugs and therapies that target specific mutations. This can help patients access clinical trials that explore cutting-edge treatments for their unique type of glioma.
Dr. Thompson emphasizes the potential of molecular testing to advance the field: “Every piece of molecular information we gather from a patient’s tumor can help inform future therapies, not just for that patient, but for others who may benefit down the road.”
Questions to Ask Your Doctor
If you or a loved one is considering molecular testing as part of a glioma treatment plan, here are some questions to guide your conversation with your doctor:
- What specific mutations will you be testing for in my tumor?
- How will the results of this testing affect my treatment options?
- Am I eligible for any targeted therapies or clinical trials based on my molecular testing results?
Dr. Thompson encourages patients to be open with their care team and to ask as many questions as needed to feel comfortable and informed about their treatment choices.
“The more the patient understands about their tumor and treatment options, the more empowered they are in their journey,” he explains.
In summary, molecular testing has transformed the way doctors approach the treatment of gliomas, allowing for more personalized care and effective treatment options. By analyzing the tumor’s unique genetic makeup, doctors can choose therapies that are better suited for each patient.
Molecular testing is not only about today’s treatment, but it’s also a powerful tool that is guiding the future of glioma care. By asking questions and understanding the value of molecular testing, patients and families can feel more confident in navigating their glioma treatment.
Learn more about SurvivorNet's rigorous medical review process.
