EGFR Mutation Detection Test (EXONS 18, 19, 20, 21)
Also known as: EGFR Mutation Detection (Exons -18, 19, 20, 21), FFPE Tissue
EGFR Mutation Test Overview
The EGFR mutation test is a crucial diagnostic tool that identifies specific genetic alterations in the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) gene, particularly in exons 18, 19, 20, and 21. This test is primarily used to detect these mutations in patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), especially those with adenocarcinoma. By identifying the presence of EGFR mutations, the test helps determine whether a patient's tumour is likely to respond to targeted therapies such as Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs).
The EGFR mutation analysis provides valuable insights into the molecular characteristics of the tumour, enabling healthcare professionals to develop personalised treatment plans. By identifying patients who are likely to benefit from TKIs, the test helps optimise treatment outcomes and improve overall patient care. Additionally, the test can provide information about the aggressiveness of the disease and predict the patient's response to specific targeted therapies.
EFGR mutations are most commonly seen in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) adenocarcinomas. EFGR mutations tend to occur in women with little or no smoking history. The doctor may recommend testing if they suspect one has lung cancer. A biopsy is recommended if a person is already diagnosed with lung cancer, or if there is a recurrence of tumours in the patient.
Up to 20% of NSCLC tumors harbour the EGFR mutation in Exons 18-21, and that ~85% of patients with these patients respond to TKI treatment.
It’s pertinent that anyone with a diagnosis of lung cancer or those who are suspected of the disease should ask their doctor whether to get tested for EFGR. The doctor can use the same biopsy tissue used to diagnose lung cancer for testing for mutations.
Exons and introns are nucleic acid sequences made up of the polynucleotide chain. However, the structure of introns is more complex with high GC-rich regions and repetitive sequences. Both the exons and introns take part in protein formation and follow the DNA packaging mechanism to fit inside a cell.
Written by: Dr Vishal Wadhwa, M.D, D.N.B Microbiology, Medical Affairs
Reasons for Undergoing the EGFR Mutation Test
There are several key reasons why a doctor may recommend the EGFR Mutation Test:
- To detect the presence of mutations in the EGFR gene, which helps identify patients who are likely to respond favourably to TKI treatment
- To guide the development of an appropriate treatment plan based on the specific type of EGFR mutation detected
- To assess the aggressiveness of the disease and predict the patient's prognosis
- To determine the likelihood of a positive response to targeted therapies, such as TKIs, and to monitor the effectiveness of these treatments over time
List of Parameters Considered During the EGFR Mutation Test
The EGFR Mutation Test focuses on analysing specific mutations in the EGFR gene, particularly in exons 18, 19, 20, and 21. The following parameters are considered during the test:
- Exon 19 deletions: These mutations are commonly observed and are associated with a high response rate to gefitinib and other EGFR TKIs.
- Exon 21 point mutations (e.g., L858R): Tumours with these mutations also tend to respond well to EGFR TKIs.
- Exon 18 mutations (e.g., G719X): These mutations are associated with sensitivity to EGFR TKIs.
- Exon 20 mutations (e.g., T790M): Often associated with resistance to first-generation EGFR TKIs, but may respond to newer TKIs.
EGFR Mutation Test Preparation
Preparing for the EGFR Mutation Test involves the following steps:
- The sample for the test is typically obtained from tumour-containing tissue, either through a biopsy or surgical specimen. The tissue should be fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin for 6 to 72 hours or embedded in a Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded (FFPE) block with more than 10% tumour content.
- There is no need for the patient to fast or prepare in any specific way before the test. However, it is important to inform the doctor about any underlying medical conditions, medications, or allergies.
EGFR Mutation Test Results & Interpretation
The results of the EGFR Mutation Test indicate the presence or absence of specific mutations in the EGFR gene:
- Positive Result: A positive result indicates the presence of an EGFR mutation, suggesting that the patient is likely to respond to TKI treatment. Different mutations, such as exon 19 deletions or exon 21 L858R mutation, have different implications for treatment and prognosis.
- Negative Result: A negative result indicates the absence of detectable EGFR mutations. In such cases, the doctor may recommend other genetic tests, such as KRAS mutation or ALK rearrangement, to guide treatment decisions.
Home Collection for EGFR Mutation Test
Metropolis Healthcare offers a convenient home collection service for the EGFR Mutation Test, ensuring that patients can access this crucial diagnostic tool from the comfort of their own homes. A trained phlebotomist will visit the patient's residence to collect the necessary tissue samples, maintaining the highest standards of sample handling and testing accuracy. This service not only provides comfort and safety for the patient but also ensures timely and reliable results.
By opting for Metropolis Healthcare's home collection service, patients can benefit from the company's commitment to making healthcare accessible and providing quality diagnostic solutions conveniently at home.
EGFR Mutation Detection (Exons -18, 19, 20, 21), FFPE Tissue Price
Metropolis Healthcare is a leading diagnostics centre and pathology lab in India equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technologies that provides the EGFR Mutation Detection (Exons -18, 19, 20, 21), FFPE Tissue with a clear pricing structure.
The EGFR Mutation Detection (Exons -18, 19, 20, 21), FFPE Tissue Price in Kalamboli is ₹ 8,480 .
We are committed to deliver accurate and quality results from the best labs in India with complete transparency regarding test cost and turnaround time. No matter where you are, we strive to offer patients high-quality service that is affordable and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
EGFR Mutation test is done to detect mutations in EGFR gene in exons 18 to 21. Patients with mutations respond well to TKI treatment
- To detect mutations in the EGFR gene in exons 18 to 21
- Patients with mutations respond well to TKI treatment
- Helps in formulating the proper treatment plan
- The test is done during or after the diagnosis of NSCLC to find out
- Whether you have a disease or condition
- How aggressive is your disease or condition is
- How well you’ll respond to specific treatments
EGFR Mutation test detects mutations in EGFR gene with real time PCR
Sample is provided by the recommending doctor. Tumor containing FFPE block (>10% of tumor). Tumor containing tissue fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin with duration of 6 to 72 hours
The sample for testing is provided by the doctor. The samples may consist of:
- Tumour containing > 10% of FFPE block.
Tumours containing the tissue fixed with 10% neutral buffered formalin within a duration of about 6 to 72 hours
Patients with EGFR mutation respond well to TKI treatment. KRAS mutations are associated with intrinsic
Tyrosine Kinase (TKI) resistance. Hence, KRAS codon 12/13 mutation testing would be useful for selection of the patients for TKI therapy.
Patients who are negative for EGFR mutations can additionally be tested for ALK rearrangement and the ALK positive NSCLC cases are likely to benefit from FDA approved crizotinib (XALKORI) therapy
Patients with PD-L1 expression predicts potential response to immunotherapy such as nivolumab and pembrolizumab
Those diagnosed with NSCLC are recommended to get the EGFR Mutation Detection Test done to decide on the type of treatment to be pursued.
The EGFR Mutation Detection Test can be done when NSCLC is detected in the lungs of the patient. It can be used to determine the mode of treatment depending on the types of gene mutations.
No particular preparation is required for the EGFR mutation detection test. The doctor must be informed of any underlying medical conditions, medicines taken and any allergies one may be having.
It is suggested to get this test done if the following symptoms of NSCLC are present in a person:
- Frequent cough
- Shortness of breath
- Blood in cough
- Pain in the back
- Pain in the shoulders
- Chest pain
- Repeated respiratory infections
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Blood clots
- Sudden weight loss
- Face and neck swelling
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck and upper chest
- Clubbing
- Reduced energy
- Jaundice
- Change in balance or strength
Most of those afflicted with NSCLC get diagnosed at a very late stage of cancer. It is because many of the symptoms of NSCLC are mistaken for the effects of those who smoke in the long term. Owing to this, 80% of those who have NSCLC have already progressed to the later stages making it much more difficult to treat. When present in the lungs, it can cause many complications such as shortness of breath, and a bluish tint to the skin and lips known as cyanosis. NSCLC is the most common type of lung cancer. Like most cancers, it is caused by genetic mutations that cause the cells in the lung to multiply rapidly leading to the development of tumours in the lungs.
- EGFR Mutation Test
The EGFR mutation test is a diagnostic tool that identifies specific genetic mutations in the EGFR gene, particularly in exons 18, 19, 20, and 21. It is primarily used to detect these mutations in patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC).
Yes, home sample collection is available for the EGFR mutation test through labs like Metropolis Healthcare. While the test typically requires a tissue sample from a biopsy or surgical procedure, these labs offer home collection services for blood samples, ensuring proper handling and transportation for accurate testing.
The EGFR Mutation Test doesn't have a specific "normal" range, as it detects mutations in the EGFR gene rather than measuring levels. A positive result indicates the presence of mutations, which may guide treatment decisions for conditions like non-small cell lung cancer.
The EGFR mutation test is used to detect mutations in the EGFR gene to guide treatment decisions, particularly to determine if a patient with NSCLC is likely to respond to Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs).
The EGFR mutation analysis is typically recommended once during or after the diagnosis of NSCLC to guide the initial treatment plan. Re-testing may be necessary if there is a recurrence or progression of the disease.
The EGFR mutation test should be done when NSCLC is detected or suspected, and ideally before starting treatment to ensure the most effective therapeutic strategy is chosen.
No, fasting is not required for the EGFR mutation test.
Patients should inform their doctor about any underlying medical conditions, medications, or allergies before undergoing EGFR mutation analysis, but no specific precautions or preparations are required beyond this.
The parameters included in the EGFR mutation test are mutations in exons 18, 19, 20, and 21 of the EGFR gene, such as exon 19 deletions, exon 21 point mutations (e.g., L858R), exon 18 mutations (e.g., G719X), and exon 20 mutations (e.g., T790M).
The EGFR mutation test should be done during or after the diagnosis of NSCLC to guide the treatment plan and determine the likelihood of response to TKIs.
The EGFR mutation analysis typically takes a few hours to complete, including DNA isolation, PCR setup, and amplification.
Reports for the EGFR mutation test can usually be obtained within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the day/date when the sample was collected and processed.
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