Predictive molecular pathology in the time of COVID-19 #MMPMID32434770
Malapelle U; De Luca C; Iaccarino A; Pepe F; Pisapia P; Russo M; Sgariglia R; Nacchio M; Vigliar E; Bellevicine C; Schmitt FC; Troncone G
J Clin Pathol 2021[Apr]; 74 (4): 234-237 PMID32434770show ga
AIMS: In the time of COVID-19, predictive molecular pathology laboratories must still timely select oncological patients for targeted treatments. However, the need to respect social distancing measures may delay results generated by laboratory-developed tests based on sequential steps a long hands-on time. Laboratory workflows should now be simplified. METHODS: The organisation of the University of Naples Federico II predictive pathology laboratory was assessed before (March-April 2019) and during (March-April 2020) the Italian lockdown. RESULTS: The number of patients undergoing single or multiple biomarker testing was similar in 2019 (n=43) and in 2020 (n=45). Considering adequate samples for molecular testing, before the outbreak, next-generation sequencing was mostly used (35/42, 83.3%). Testing six genes had a reagent cost of euro98/patient. Conversely, in 2020, almost all cases (38/41, 92.7%) were analysed by automated testing. This latter had for any single assay/gene a significant reagent cost (euro95-euro136) and a faster mean turnaround time (5.3 vs 7.9 working days). CONCLUSION: In the times of coronavirus, laboratory fully automated platforms simplify predictive molecular testing. Laboratory staff may be more safely and cost-effectively managed.
J+Clin+Pathol 2021 ; 74 (4): 234-237
