BTOG 2023 | Solid tumor genomic testing in the UK: challenges and solutions

Alastair Greystoke, MBChB, MSc, PhD, MRCP, University of Newcastle & Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle, UK, explains some of the challenges and corresponding solutions relating to solid tumor genomic testing in the lung cancer space, specifically in the UK. Challenges revolve around the small size of the tumor biopsy samples, the complicated testing pathway which has resulted from the centralization of genomic testing, the requirement for next-generation sequencing (NGS) to diagnose complex abnormalities, the flawed process of obtaining test approval from the National Genomic Test Directory, and societal pressures from patients and family. Dr Greystoke proposes several solutions that could be implemented to solve such issues including the introduction of a tissue coordinator to track the tissue sample along the complex testing pathway, a thorough analysis of the turn-around time, and the identification of roadblocks in this process so that these may be dealt with individually. Further, the timely use of circulating tumor cell (CTC) tests may reduce the time between diagnosis and treatment. This interview took place at the British Thoracic Oncology Group (BTOG) Annual Conference 2023 in Belfast, UK.

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