Transforming Skin Cancer Management with Gene Expression Profiling

At the forefront of skin cancer treatment, especially melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma, is gene expression profiling (GEP). This cutting-edge approach was highlighted by Dr. Darrell Rigel during the 10th Annual Fall Clinical PA/NP Conference in Orlando, Florida. As a clinical professor at New York University and a seasoned dermatologist, Rigel's insights shed light on how GEP is reshaping patient care.

Dr. Rigel pointed to a staggering statistic: over 100,000 new invasive melanoma cases are projected in the U.S. alone this year. While traditional assessment methods like tumor thickness and lymph node status remain crucial, there’s a pressing need for a more tailored risk evaluation. Enter GEP testing—a game-changer for personalized medicine.

What Is the 31-GEP Test?

The 31-GEP test evaluates the expression of 31 key genes, providing crucial prognostic information and assessing the likelihood of sentinel lymph node positivity. This allows doctors to customize their follow-up strategies and initiate advanced treatments sooner for high-risk patients while sparing low-risk patients from needless procedures. Currently, around 20,000 patients annually benefit from this test, prescribed by over 4,000 dermatology professionals nationwide.

Guiding Treatment Decisions and Improving Outcomes

GEP also plays a vital role in determining the necessity of sentinel node biopsies. For those with low-risk (Class 1A) results, the test can alleviate the need for invasive procedures, while those classified as higher-risk (Class 2B) receive the green light to proceed with biopsies, significantly aiding in treatment planning.

Further expanding its impact, Rigel noted the exciting prospects of GEP in managing squamous cell carcinoma, especially for patients exhibiting high-risk characteristics. Recent studies suggest that patients with Class 2B results can greatly benefit from adjuvant radiation therapy, while those with lower-risk profiles may sidestep aggressive treatments altogether.

A Promising Future for Skin Cancer Treatment

"We’re just scratching the surface with GEP testing. It's truly transforming my approach to skin cancer management, particularly for melanoma and squamous cell carcinomas," Rigel asserted. He emphasized that the integration of GEP into everyday clinical practice is quickly becoming best practice for optimal patient outcomes, marking a turning point in the fight against skin cancer.

As research continues to unfold, GEP could redefine standards in oncology, ensuring that patients receive tailored care that aligns perfectly with their individual needs.