Dr. Patricia Rodriguez of Virginia Cancer Specialists, is a co-author of the joint guideline paper issued by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and the Society of Surgical Oncology (SSO) that aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for healthcare professionals dealing with precision care for breast cancer patients.
The main goal of this paper was to create strong recommendations for germline mutation testing in breast cancer. The guideline panel, consisting of oncology and surgical oncology specialists, conducted a thorough review of existing literature. They used a formal consensus process to distill their findings into actionable guidelines, ensuring a comprehensive perspective on the complexities of germline mutation testing in breast cancer.
Key Findings: The review (Germline Testing in Patients With Breast Cancer: ASCO–Society of Surgical Oncology Guideline) identified 47 eligible articles for germline mutation testing recommendations and 18 for genetic counseling recommendations. Emphasis was placed on BRCA1/2 mutation testing guidelines, urging testing for specific patient groups based on age, family history, and eligibility for certain therapies.
Recommendations: The ASCO–SSO panel’s recommendations cover crucial aspects such as selective testing based on age and specific criteria, extending testing to recurrent breast cancer patients eligible for certain therapies, and comprehensive counseling for those with pathogenic variants. The ASCO–SSO panel’s recommendations provide a comprehensive guide for healthcare professionals, promising to improve precision and efficacy in caring for individuals facing the complexities of breast cancer. For more detailed guidelines, visit www.asco.org/breast-cancer-guidelines.
