HER2 testing for breast carcinoma: recommendations for rapid diagnostic pathways in clinical practice. Issue 2 (23rd September 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shaaban, A M; Purdie, C A; Bartlett, J M S; Stein, R C; Lane, S; Francis, A; Thompson, A M; Pinder, S E
• Is Part Of: Journal of clinical pathology. Volume 67:Issue 2(2014)
• Page Start: 161
• Page End: 167
• Publication Date: 2013-09-23
• Subjects: BREAST CANCER -- MOLECULAR PATHOLOGY -- IMMUNOCYTOCHEMISTRY; Pathology -- Periodicals; Pathology, Molecular -- Periodicals; 616.0705
• DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2013-201819
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0021-9746

Abstract

Abstract : Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) testing is required for newly diagnosed breast cancer and advised for recurrent and metastatic breast cancer, to determine treatment planning using HER2-directed therapy in the neoadjuvant, adjuvant and advanced disease settings. Wide variation, nationally, in the turnaround time for HER2 testing may hinder equity of access for patients to both clinical trials and the timely implementation of HER2-directed therapy particularly in the neo-adjuvant setting. Process mapping from three recognised laboratories in the UK was applied to the logistics of HER2 testing in different geographic hub and spoke models. Consequently, recommendations for HER2 testing likely to facilitate access to clinical trials and timely patient care are presented.