Publications by authors named "A Pollett"
Background And Objectives: Adoption of molecular classification in endometrial cancer (EC) into clinical practice remains challenging due to complexity in coordination of multiple assays. We aimed to develop a simple molecular technique to classify ECs into four subgroups using our custom-designed targeted sequencing panel.
Methods: Patients with newly diagnosed ECs were prospectively recruited from three cancer centres in Ontario, Canada.
Article Synopsis
- Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are tumors that come from specific cells in the gut and are primarily caused by certain genetic mutations; surgical removal is the best option for localized cases, while targeted drug therapies are the standard for management.
- Recent advances in understanding GISTs have led to updates in treatment strategies, but disparities in care exist across Canada due to its provincial healthcare system, highlighting the need for standardized guidelines.
- A panel of 20 experienced Canadian physicians from various specialties reviewed literature on GISTs to create a consensus on management practices, covering key topics like molecular profiling and multidisciplinary care to improve consistency in treatment across the country.
A multi-disciplinary symposium on early-age onset cancer (EAOC) was held in October 2023 to explore challenges experienced by this rapidly growing population. A major outcome of the symposium was recognition of the remarkable similarities of EAOC patients' journeys across cancer sites. Prevention and early detection of cancer are hindered by a lack of awareness among patients and family doctors that cancer can and does occur in younger persons.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFGenome-based testing in oncology is a rapidly expanding area of health care that is the basis of the emerging area of precision medicine. The efficient and considered adoption of novel genomic medicine testing is hampered in Canada by the fragmented nature of health care oversight as well as by lack of clear and transparent processes to support rapid evaluation, assessment, and implementation of genomic tests. This article provides an overview of some key barriers and proposes approaches to addressing these challenges as a potential pathway to developing a national approach to genomic medicine in oncology.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFArticle Synopsis
- The study aimed to investigate the causes of mismatch repair deficiency (MMRd) in ovarian cancer by using targeted mutational and methylation sequencing on cases diagnosed between 2015 and 2018 in Ontario, Canada.
- Out of 215 ovarian cancer cases, 28 (13%) were identified as MMRd, with many associated with Lynch syndrome; molecular analysis explained the deficiency in all cases, revealing various genetic mutations and alterations.
- The custom next generation sequencing panel used in the study proved effective in identifying both hereditary and somatic changes, showing complete alignment with clinical germline testing results.