Expert recommendations for biomarker evaluation of advanced non-small cell lung cancer in Thailand

Abstract

Background: Growing understanding of the heterogenous molecular profiles of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has led to changes in the treatment landscape of advanced NSCLC towards precision medicine to target actionable gene alterations. Practical barriers, such as lack of awareness/understanding of biomarkers, suboptimal quality or sample management, inappropriate use of biomarker testing results, limited patient access to biomarker tests and targeted treatments, and reimbursement/payment challenges, hinder the wider adoption of guideline-recommended biomarker testing. Limited reimbursement of targeted therapies is a key consideration for Thai oncologists when making a treatment choice for their patients with advanced NSCLC in Thailand. We aim to assess the current state of biomarker testing and treatment for advanced NSCLC in Thailand and provide recommendations to facilitate timely access to appropriate therapies, enhance patient quality of life, and optimize the use of Thailand’s existing healthcare schemes. Methods: The expert panel comprising one clinical pathologist, three anatomic pathologists, one molecular geneticist, and four medical oncologists convened to review recent literature, discuss current clinical practice, and prioritize essential topics for biomarker assessment and management of advanced NSCLC in Thailand. Following the meeting, further discussions on these prioritized topics were conducted via email, and the recommendations were developed. Results: Our recommendations include adopting an exclusionary strategy for biomarker testing, emphasizing the role of a multidisciplinary team (MDT) in managing patients with advanced NSCLC, and underscoring the importance of laboratory accreditation and external quality assurance programs. Additionally, we highlight the need for high-quality data on the local impact of novel treatments to assist policymakers in making these therapies accessible to suitable patients. Conclusions: By proposing practical strategies tailored to our local healthcare setting, such as exclusionary biomarker testing approach, MDT involvement, and robust quality assurance measures, we provide a roadmap for improving the diagnosis and treatment of advanced NSCLC.