Optimised Tumour Sampling and Processing by a Multidisciplinary Approach for an Accurate Diagnosis in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Abstract

The classification of lung cancer has evolved parallel to the knowledge of its biomolecular features and is implemented by the analysis of specific gene alterations, which have shown prognostic and predictive values. Consequently, the diagnosis of a specific ‘biomolecular subtype’ of lung cancer is accompanied by different therapeutic strategies. Optimal target tissue sampling plays a key role in the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. Tissue samples can be obtained through various techniques involving different healthcare professionals. Therefore, a multidisciplinary approach is crucial to obtain a suitable diagnostic sample encompassing as much of the information as possible for optimal therapeutic management. In this paper, the authors share the expertise of all professionals involved in the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches of patients with lung cancer: pulmonologists, pathologists, oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, and molecular biologists. The different know-how contributions have been gathered in a single text to offer a comprehensive view on the management of the lung cancer tissue journey.

Keywords

• cell-block
• cytology
• fine needle aspiration (fna)
• histology
• immunohistochemistry
• next-generation sequencing (ngs)
• non-small cell lung cancer (nsclc)
• tissue