Best Practices and Research Advances in Thoracic Oncology: A Regional Series Eastern Europe/Baltic Course 3: Driver Alterations in Lung Cancer-Molecular Profiling in the Region: Opportunities and Challenges

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Video Summary

Aleš Ryška discusses the evolving landscape of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) molecular profiling in the Czech Republic. Traditionally based on morphological classification, lung cancer diagnosis now includes molecular subclassifications, enabling targeted treatments. However, the pathologist's role remains crucial throughout pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical phases to ensure accurate testing and interpretation. Implementing molecular testing requires infrastructure, training, feedback mechanisms, and adequate financing. <br /><br />In the Czech Republic, all labs conducting medical testing must comply with ISO standards and participate in quality assurance programs. NSCLC testing began in 2008, expanding from HER2 in breast cancer to various biomarkers like EGFR and ALK. Testing is typically reimbursed by health insurance, and a robust registry system (Kelly Registry) monitors lab performance. By adopting broad molecular profiling through technologies like NGS, labs can efficiently manage limited tissue samples while addressing financial constraints and clinical expectations, ensuring patients receive timely, targeted treatments.

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Ales Ryska, MD, PhD

Keywords

NSCLC molecular profiling

targeted treatments

pathologist role

quality assurance

next-generation sequencing