RNA Acquisition From Transbronchial Needle Aspiration in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer

The current complexity of non–small cell lung lies in multiple histologies, targetable mutations, and gene expression, all of which are necessary information for structuring treatment and formulating prognosis. Obtaining this information from small-volume biopsies can present unique challenges, and researchers are exploring RNA analysis to elicit this. RNA analysis is already being used in other malignancies such as those of the breast and thyroid. We performed a review of the literature, demonstrating that sufficient material can be obtained through RNA specimens collected during endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration, and that this has potential utility in diagnostic and prognostic roles. Myth: Transbronchial needle aspiration will obtain insufficient sample for RNA analysis.
Source: Clinical Pulmonary Medicine - Category: Respiratory Medicine Tags: Clinical Myths and Evidence-Based Medicine Source Type: research