BRAF Full Gene Mutation Analysis - Paraffin Block

This test is used to detect mutations in the BRAF gene from tissue samples. It’s often used to identify cancer patients who might benefit from targeted therapies.

A tissue sample is collected, usually during a biopsy or surgery, and is then preserved in a paraffin block by healthcare professionals.

The BRAF gene is involved in sending signals inside cells and in cell growth. Mutations in the BRAF gene can cause the protein it makes to be overactive, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and the development of cancer.

Paraffin-embedded tissues are well-preserved, allowing for better quality DNA extraction and testing, even from older samples.

BRAF mutations are most commonly associated with melanoma but can also be found in colorectal, thyroid, and non-small cell lung cancers.

The presence of BRAF mutations can make a patient eligible for targeted therapies specifically designed to inhibit the mutant BRAF protein, potentially leading to more effective treatments.

Yes, sometimes the fixation process of embedding tissues in paraffin can cause DNA degradation which can affect the quality of genetic material available for testing.

Targeted therapy is a cancer treatment that targets specific molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. For patients with BRAF mutations, targeted therapies can specifically inhibit the mutant BRAF protein, which is involved in cancer cell growth.

Yes, if the sample quality is poor or if there is an issue with the DNA extraction process, it’s possible to receive a false-negative result.

If no BRAF mutation is detected, targeted therapy for BRAF might not be effective. Your doctor will consider other treatment options.

This test is primarily used for treatment planning. However, in some cases, it may be repeated to monitor the status of BRAF mutations during the course of the disease.

The test itself has no associated risks. However, the biopsy procedure used to obtain the tissue sample carries some risks, including infection and bleeding.

Most BRAF mutations are not hereditary and occur during a person’s lifetime. They are often a result of environmental factors such as UV exposure.

You should consult your doctor who may refer you to an oncologist specializing in the type of cancer associated with the BRAF mutation.

The reliability of this test is generally high, but it can be influenced by the quality of the tissue sample and the techniques used in the analysis.

Understanding the genetic makeup of cancer through tests like the BRAF Full Gene Mutation Analysis is a cornerstone in modern oncology. It is essential in crafting targeted treatment plans aimed at the specific genetic abnormalities in individual cancers. If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with cancer, it's important to explore all avenues for the best possible treatment, and understanding the genetic aspects of the disease is often a critical component of this process.