Cancer is a multifaceted disease in which genetic changes induce uncontrolled tumor growth. Genomic characterization of cancer is now leading to better diagnostic, prognostic and predictive biomarkers, and effective individualized management. 'Fast Facts: Comprehensive Genomic Profiling' provides a crash course in the science, methods and application of genomic profiling. Assuming only the most basic knowledge – or memory – of cell biology, the authors provide an overview of DNA and RNA biology and next-generation sequencing. This sets in context the descriptions of prognostic and predictive biomarkers for different cancer types and genomic-based treatments. Finally, but importantly, some of the practicalities of gaining and interpreting genomic information are described. Whether you need a primer or a refresher, this short colorful book demystifies this complex subject. Contents: • Genetic mutations and biomarkers • Understanding next-generation sequencing • Elements of comprehensive genomic profiles • Role in precision oncology • Predictive and prognostic biomarkers • Overcoming barriers to genotype-directed therapy

Cancer is a multifaceted disease in which genetic changes induce uncontrolled tumor growth. Genomic characterization of cancer is now leading to better diagnostic, prognostic and predictive biomarkers, and effective individualized management. 'Fast Facts: Comprehensive Genomic Profiling' provides a crash course in the science, methods and application of genomic profiling. Assuming only the most basic knowledge – or memory – of cell biology, the authors provide an overview of DNA and RNA biology and next-generation sequencing. This sets in context the descriptions of prognostic and predictive biomarkers for different cancer types and genomic-based treatments. Finally, but importantly, some of the practicalities of gaining and interpreting genomic information are described. Whether you need a primer or a refresher, this short colorful book demystifies this complex subject. Contents: • Genetic mutations and biomarkers • Understanding next-generation sequencing • Elements of comprehensive genomic profiles • Role in precision oncology • Predictive and prognostic biomarkers • Overcoming barriers to genotype-directed therapy

Identifying tumor-specific molecular aberrations via molecular profiling is vital for the use of targeted therapies. Understanding a patient’s unique tumor genetics provides predictive and prognostic information that enables a personalized care plan to be put in place, improving outcomes and minimizing ineffective treatments. 'Fast Facts: Molecular Profiling in Solid Tumors' provides a firm knowledge foundation of somatic molecular profiling methodologies, key information to help with the use of molecular profiling in daily practice and advice on communicating with patients about molecular testing and results. Table of Contents: • Molecular profiling: the basics • Rationale for testing • Sample collection • Test selection and process • Interpreting the report • Talking to patients • Challenges and opportunities

Cholangiocarcinomas (CCAs) are a group of heterogeneous tumors that have traditionally had poor prognosis. Despite being rare, the global incidence of CCA has increased dramatically over the last few decades. However, alongside this, there have been advancements in our understanding, diagnosis and treatment, improving the overall survival and quality of life of patients with advanced disease. This compact yet comprehensive review of CCA serves as a guide for physicians, oncologists, allied health professionals, scientists, patients and caregivers to update their knowledge of the most recent clinical developments and most promising areas of research. Table of Contents: • Pathophysiology, etiology and epidemiology • Diagnosis • Biliary drainage and supportive care • Surgical resection and transplantation • Translational research • Systemic therapy • Immunotherapy • Radiotherapy and photodynamic therapy

Our understanding of the biology of bladder cancer has advanced remarkably since the second edition of 'Fast Facts: Bladder Cancer' was published in 2006. Five new immunotherapies targeting the PD-1 axis were approved in 2016 and 2017 for the treatment of advanced bladder cancer, reflecting this transformative explosion in knowledge about the biology of the disease. This new era of targeted treatment offers hope to patients, particularly those with advanced disease. However, for clinicians it means a lot to understand in terms of how these immunotherapies are integrated into the treatment paradigm. Who they are suitable for? When are they best used? What is the optimal sequence of treatments for individual patients? This third edition of 'Fast Facts: Bladder Cancer' has been updated extensively throughout by two new authors, bringing a fresh perspective. Key updates include: • the latest understanding of pathology and biology • current standards for investigation, imaging and diagnosis • the critical role that awareness of the significance of hematuria among patients and primary care health professionals can make to earlier detection at curable stages of the disease • the roles of drugs, surgery and radiation therapy in treatment at different stages of bladder cancer, and when and how best to intervene, aided by understanding of the risk factors for disease relapse and progression • a new chapter about immunotherapy for bladder cancer • future trends in a rapidly evolving field. 'Fast Facts: Bladder Cancer' is a concise guide that will be of value to clinicians and health professionals involved in the detection and treatment of bladder cancer. This highly readable resource provides a comprehensive and current view of this complex disease, enabling informed discussions with patients. Contents: • Epidemiology and etiology • Pathology and biology • Clinical presentation • Investigations • Management of non-muscle-invasive disease • Management of muscle-invasive disease • Management of advanced and metastatic disease • Immunotherapy • Future trends • Useful resources

Technologies collectively called omics enable simultaneous measurement of an enormous number of biomolecules; for example, genomics investigates thousands of DNA sequences, and proteomics examines large numbers of proteins. Scientists are using these technologies to develop innovative tests to detect disease and to predict a patient's likelihood of responding to specific drugs. Following a recent case involving premature use of omics-based tests in cancer clinical trials at Duke University, the NCI requested that the IOM establish a committee to recommend ways to strengthen omics-based test development and evaluation. This report identifies best practices to enhance development, evaluation, and translation of omics-based tests while simultaneously reinforcing steps to ensure that these tests are appropriately assessed for scientific validity before they are used to guide patient treatment in clinical trials.

Raising hopes for disease treatment and prevention, but also the specter of discrimination and "designer genes," genetic testing is potentially one of the most socially explosive developments of our time. This book presents a current assessment of this rapidly evolving field, offering principles for actions and research and recommendations on key issues in genetic testing and screening. Advantages of early genetic knowledge are balanced with issues associated with such knowledge: availability of treatment, privacy and discrimination, personal decision-making, public health objectives, cost, and more. Among the important issues covered: Quality control in genetic testing. Appropriate roles for public agencies, private health practitioners, and laboratories. Value-neutral education and counseling for persons considering testing. Use of test results in insurance, employment, and other settings.