Dr. Marshall on the Importance of Molecular Testing in Gastrointestinal Cancers

John L. Marshall, MD, chief, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Medstar Georgetown University Hospital, professor of medicine and oncology, and director, Otto J. Ruesch Center for the Cure of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Georgetown-Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, discusses the importance of molecular testing in gastrointestinal (GI) cancers.

The molecular characteristics of GI cancer​s should be identified early in ​the course of treatment, says Marshall. Additionally, it ​is understood that these cancer​s are polyclonal, ​explains Marshall. When provided the opportunity, ​testing should be repeated.

Liquid biopsies to look for mechanisms of resistance in GI cancers have not yet been fully adopted, ​explains Marshall. However, as the utility of liquid biopsy grows, changes in resistance patterns ​are likely to be identified.

Although current guidelines do not require repeat testing, it could have a positive effect on the management of patients with GI cancers, Marshall concludes.