Fred R. Hirsch, MD, PhD

Fred R. Hirsch, MD, PhD, professor of medicine and executive director for the Center for Thoracic Oncology, Tisch Cancer Institute, Mount Sinai Health System, discusses how genomic testing has expanded over the last few years and has impacted the lung cancer treatment paradigm.

Different technologies are emerging for genomic testing in lung cancer, and there are an increasing number of targets that can be durable for lung cancer treatment, says Hirsch. Because so many targeted therapies are available that are directed toward genetic mutations, it is crucial that all patients with lung cancer be tested.

There are guidelines available for genomic testing. Hirsch has been involved in the

guidelines, which recommend that all patients with adenocarcinoma, or in patients where an adenocarcinoma component cannot be excluded, be tested for molecular characteristics.

Patients with squamous or nonsmall cell lung cancer are routinely tested in clinical practice, but these patients tend to undergo testing in academic centers. Guidelines recommend that younger patients with squamous histology who are never smokers should also be tested as the treatment paradigm continues to emerge rapidly with many new targets.

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Fred R. Hirsch, MD, PhD, discusses how genomic testing has expanded over the last few years and has impacted the lung cancer treatment paradigm.

Genomic Testing Expands With Evolving Lung Cancer Treatment Paradigm

Fred R. Hirsch, MD, PhD, professor of medicine and executive director for the Center for Thoracic Oncology, Tisch Cancer Institute, Mount Sinai Health System, shares a message with oncologists regarding molecular testing in patients with lung cancer. He says the most important message is that molecular characterization of the patient&rsquo;s tumor must be done in order to best treat the patient.

It sounds simple, but Hirsch says not all patients with lung cancer undergo molecular testing at this time, especially in the community setting. It is not natural in that setting to get molecular testing on every patient&rsquo;s tumor, but it is necessary.

Today&rsquo;s lung cancer treatments are mainly based on the molecular profile of patients, especially in the setting of advanced disease. Understanding a patient&rsquo;s molecular profile is essential in selecting the right treatment.

Fred R. Hirsch, MD, PhD, shares a message with oncologists regarding molecular testing in patients with lung cancer. He says the most important message is that molecular characterization of the patient&rsquo;s tumor must be done in order to best treat the patient.

Expert Highlights Importance of Molecular Testing in Patients With Lung Cancer

Fred R. Hirsch, MD, PhD Professor of Medicine and Pathology, Associate Director for International Programs, University of Colorado Cancer Center, discusses the importance of biomarkers for lung cancer.

Articles

Fred R. Hirsch, MD, PhD, Professor of Medicine and Pathology, Associate Director for International Programs, University of Colorado Cancer Center, discusses the importance of biomarkers for lung cancer.

Fred R. Hirsch, MD, PhD | Authors

Articles

Genomic Testing Expands With Evolving Lung Cancer Treatment Paradigm

Expert Highlights Importance of Molecular Testing in Patients With Lung Cancer

The Importance of Biomarkers for Lung Cancer