DecisionDx-UM

DecisionDx-UM

DecisionDx-UM is a gene expression profiling test used in the field of oncology to assess the risk of metastasis in patients with uveal melanoma. Uveal melanoma is a rare but aggressive form of eye cancer that arises from the melanocytes within the uveal tract of the eye, which includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid.

Background

Uveal melanoma is the most common primary intraocular malignancy in adults, yet it remains a rare condition overall. The prognosis for patients with uveal melanoma is highly variable, with some patients experiencing metastasis, particularly to the liver, while others do not. Traditional methods of assessing metastatic risk have included clinical and histopathological features, but these have limitations in accurately predicting outcomes.

Gene Expression Profiling

Gene expression profiling is a technique used to analyze the patterns of gene activity in a cell or tissue. The DecisionDx-UM test specifically examines the expression of 15 genes within the tumor tissue to classify patients into different risk categories. These categories are:

• Class 1A: Low risk of metastasis
• Class 1B: Intermediate risk of metastasis
• Class 2: High risk of metastasis

The test provides valuable prognostic information that can guide clinical decision-making, including surveillance strategies and potential adjuvant therapies.

Clinical Use

The DecisionDx-UM test is typically performed on a biopsy sample of the uveal melanoma tumor. The results of the test can help ophthalmologists and oncologists tailor follow-up care and treatment plans based on the individual patient's risk of metastasis. For example, patients classified as Class 2 may undergo more frequent imaging studies to monitor for metastatic disease.

Advantages

The use of DecisionDx-UM offers several advantages:

• Provides a more accurate risk assessment compared to traditional methods.
• Helps in personalizing patient management and follow-up care.
• May reduce unnecessary interventions in low-risk patients.

Limitations

While DecisionDx-UM is a powerful tool, it is not without limitations:

• It requires a sufficient tumor sample for analysis.
• It does not replace the need for comprehensive clinical evaluation.
• The test is specific to uveal melanoma and not applicable to other types of melanoma.

Related pages

• Uveal melanoma
• Gene expression profiling
• Oncology
• Metastasis

See also

• Cancer genomics
• Personalized medicine