GEP Tests Improving Tailored Skin Cancer Treatment After Staging

GEP Testing Explored in Melanoma and SCC Cases

During a recent Dermatology Times Case-Based Roundtable, Dr. Gaurav Singh highlighted the utility of Gene Expression Profiling (GEP) testing in managing melanoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) through the discussion of three distinct patient cases. This approach allowed for a practical understanding of how GEP testing can inform treatment decisions.

Understanding GEP Testing

GEP testing analyzes the activity of specific genes in tumor samples. This analysis provides valuable information about the tumor’s behavior, helping physicians to:

• Assess the risk of recurrence.
• Predict the likelihood of metastasis.
• Guide treatment strategies.

Case Study Highlights

Dr. Singh presented three patient cases to illustrate the application of GEP testing in real-world scenarios:

Case 1: Early-Stage Melanoma

In a patient with early-stage melanoma, GEP testing helped determine the risk of recurrence. This information guided the decision on whether to pursue more aggressive treatment options beyond initial excision.

Case 2: High-Risk SCC

For a patient diagnosed with high-risk SCC, GEP testing aided in predicting the potential for metastasis. The results influenced the selection of appropriate adjuvant therapies and follow-up strategies.

Case 3: Atypical Presentation

In a case with an atypical presentation of skin cancer, GEP testing provided crucial insights into the tumor’s characteristics, leading to a more accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

Benefits of GEP Testing

The discussion emphasized several key benefits of incorporating GEP testing into the management of melanoma and SCC:

• Improved risk stratification
• Personalized treatment approaches
• Enhanced patient outcomes

Final Words

Dr. Singh’s presentation underscored the growing importance of GEP testing in dermatology. By providing valuable prognostic and predictive information, GEP testing empowers clinicians to make more informed decisions, ultimately leading to better outcomes for patients with melanoma and SCC.