Molecular diagnostics allows certain cancers to be treated based on their genetic profile and can be used to determine the success of cancer treatment and in selecting treatment regimens for particular cancers. The NCCP established the Molecular Diagnostics Advisory group to advise on the relevant cancer molecular diagnostic testing requirements to identify molecular biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis, disease monitoring, treatment options and treatment stratification. This work aligns with the work of the HSE National Genetics and Genomics Office.
NCCP Genomic Test Directory for Cancer
The NCCP Genomic Test Directory for Cancer is being developed and maintained under the governance of the NCCP Molecular Diagnostics Advisory Group. The current test directory is available here.
(Please note the test directory will download and you must open the excel file and select enable editing to view the directory)
It comprises a list of clinical indications for genomic testing for cancer patients and is focused on clinically actionable findings. Each clinical indication included in the test directory has a set of testing criteria that specifies the genomic tests available, which patients qualify for testing and the technology to be used for testing. Where there is overlap with hereditary cancer, in the tests detailed the agreed NCCP hereditary cancer pathways are referenced.
A phased approach is being taken to the development of the NCCP Genomic Test Directory for Cancer and it is an iterative document. It is planned to add genomic tests for other solid tumour types and haematological malignancies. All feedback on the NCCP Genomic Test Directory for Cancer will be considered by the NCCP Molecular Diagnostics Advisory Group. A feedback form is available here and should be submitted to oncologydrugs@cancercontrol.ie
The development of the test directory remains aligned to the HSE National Strategy for Accelerating Genetic and Genomic Medicine in Ireland and the work of the HSE National Genetics and Genomic Office.
A Test Proposal Form is available for new test submissions for consideration by the Molecular Diagnostics Advisory Group and is available here. The form should be submitted to the NCCP Molecular Diagnostics Advisory Group for consideration by emailing completed forms to oncologydrugs@cancercontrol.ie
The NCCP Framework for Decision Making for Cancer Molecular Diagnostic Tests in the Irish Molecular Pathology Service is used to appraise the evidence on the efficacy and effectiveness of tests and to ensure that decisions relating to the classification and declassification of cancer molecular diagnostics tests, in the Irish molecular pathology service as it relates to oncological and haematological malignancies in the Irish public health service are reasonable, transparent and justifiable.
