On August 24, 2015 Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings (LabCorp) (NYSE: LH) reported the nationwide availability of its VistaSeq Hereditary Cancer Panel, a novel, 27-gene panel designed to identify patients with increased risk of breast, ovarian, melanoma, pancreatic, colorectal, endometrial, gastric, prostate, and other cancers (Filing, 8-K, LabCorp, AUG 24, 2015, View Source [SID:1234507327]). These cancers are projected to result in approximately 900,000 new diagnoses of cancer, and almost 200,000 deaths, annually in the U.S.
"This innovative new offering enhances our industry-leading portfolio of genetic and genomic testing, which we seamlessly integrate with the largest cohort of board-certified genetic counselors in the industry," said David P. King, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "VistaSeq is an important advancement in precision medicine, and represents the latest example of our strategic focus on delivering world-class diagnostics and using the resulting information to change the way care is provided."
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The VistaSeq Hereditary Cancer Panel provides an assessment of genetic mutations within a panel of 27 genes known to be associated with hereditary cancer syndromes. The information provided is used to determine an increased cancer risk in patients with an associated personal or family history. Mutations in different genes may cause the same type of cancer; conversely, one gene may be associated with multiple hereditary cancer syndromes. VistaSeq will give healthcare providers and patients additional information to assist in understanding further monitoring and appropriate medical management options.
NCCN Guidelines and The Society of Gynecologic Oncology (SGO) note that hereditary multi-gene panels may be an efficient and cost-effective approach to genetic cancer testing when used in appropriate clinical settings.
"LabCorp’s VistaSeq testing capabilities and services provide physicians and patients with powerful tools for the assessment of hereditary cancers," stated Dr. Marcia Eisenberg, LabCorp Diagnostics’ Chief Scientific Officer. "VistaSeq was developed based on our strong in-house expertise in genomics and the latest advancements in science. LabCorp is a leader in genetic testing and counseling services, and we continue to expand our innovative menu of focused genetic tests."
The VistaSeq test is available nationwide through any LabCorp account, and will be performed by Integrated Genetics, a member of LabCorp’s Specialty Testing Group. In addition, LabCorp offers a complete range of complementary services to the testing for patients and physicians, including insurance pre-authorization support and access to genetic counselors, who are professionally trained to analyze, assess, and interpret genetic test results.