Dr. Rose on the Importance of Genetic Testing in Ovarian Cancer

Stephen L. Rose, MD, director, Gynecologic Oncology program, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin (UW) Carbone Cancer Center, UW Health, discusses the importance of genetic testing in ovarian cancer.

 The importance of genetic testing in this patient population can be accredited to the use of PARP inhibitors, as PARP inhibitors have demonstrated improved outcomes when used as frontline treatment for certain patients with ovarian cancer, Rose says. Moreover, patients can be started on PARP inhibitors quickly based on their somatic or germline BRCA mutational status and their homologous recombination proficiency or deficiency (HRD) status, which is beneficial, Rose expands. However, a barrier to widespread implementation of genetic testing has been the lack of timely genetic counseling in a timely manner, Rose adds. 

Trying to utilize virtual visits to increase efficiency and get patients through the system can be beneficial, Rose continues. Additionally, although somatic BRCA mutational testing, as well as HRD testing, can be beneficial, concurrent somatic and germline testing is recommended up front to ensure that all eligible patients receive PARP inhibitor maintenance therapy, Rose concludes.