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HelpTest ID: BRAFB Cell-Free DNA BRAF V600, Blood
Useful For
An alternative to invasive tissue biopsies for the determination of BRAF V600E and V600K alterations
Identification of patients with cancer who are most likely to benefit from targeted therapies
This test is not intended for serial monitoring of patients with cancer or as a screening test to identify cancer.
Genetics Test Information
This test evaluates cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in the peripheral blood for the presence of BRAF V600E or V600K alterations in patients with cancer and can be used to determine if these patients are candidates for targeted therapies.
Method Name
Digital Droplet Polymerase Chain Reaction (ddPCR)
Reporting Name
cfDNA BRAF V600 Test, BloodSpecimen Type
Whole bloodOrdering Guidance
This test is not a prenatal screening test.
Shipping Instructions
1. Samples should be transported at ambient temperature or refrigerated (4° C)
2. Samples are viable for 7 days in the Streck Black/Tan Top Tube Kit (T715)
Specimen Required
Supplies: Streck Black/Tan Top Tube Kit (T715)
Container/Tube: Streck Cell-Free DNA blood collection kit
Specimen Volume: Two 10-mL Streck Cell-Free DNA blood collection tubes
Additional Information: Only blood collected in Streck Cell-Free DNA tubes will be accepted for analysis. Whole blood will be processed to produce platelet-poor plasma before cfDNA isolation.
Specimen Minimum Volume
One 10 mL Streck cell-free DNA blood collection tube
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | Special Container |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whole blood | Ambient (preferred) | 7 days | |
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
Clinical Information
This test uses DNA extracted from the peripheral blood to evaluate for the presence of BRAF V600E and V600K alterations. The BRAF gene is a member of the mitogen-activated protein/extracellular signal-regulated (MAP/ERK) kinase pathway, which plays a role in cell proliferation and differentiation. Dysregulation of this pathway is a key factor in tumor progression and BRAF alterations occur frequently in many different tumor types. BRAF variant analysis aids in the diagnosis of cancer types including anaplastic and papillary thyroid carcinoma, hairy cell leukemia, and papillary craniopharyngioma.
BRAF V600E and V600K alterations are associated with response or resistance to specific targeted therapies in cancer. Targeted cancer therapies are defined as antibody or small molecule drugs that block the growth and spread of cancer by interfering with specific cell molecules involved in tumor growth and progression. Multiple targeted therapies have been approved by the FDA for treatment of specific cancers. Molecular genetic profiling is often needed to identify targets amenable to targeted therapies and to minimize treatment costs and therapy-associated risks.
Interpretation
The interpretation of molecular biomarker analysis includes an overview of the results and the associated diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic implications.
Clinical Reference
1. Sanmamed MJ, Fernandez-Landazuri S, Rodriguez C, et al: Quantitative cell-free circulating BRAFV600E mutation analysis by use of droplet digital PCR in the follow-up of patients with melanoma being treated with BRAF inhibitors. Clin Chem. 2015;61(1):297-304
2. Schwarzenbach H, Hoon DS, Pantel K: Cell-free nucleic acids as biomarkers in cancer patients. Nat Rev Cancer. 2011 Jun;11(6):426-437
3. Johnson DB, Sosman JA: Update on the targeted therapy of melanoma. Curr Treat Options Oncol. 2013 Jun 14;(2):280-292
4. McArthur GA, Chapman PB, Robert C, et al: Safety and efficacy of vemurafenib in BRAF (V600E) and BRAF (V600K) mutation-positive melanoma (BRIM-3): extended follow-up of a phase 3, randomized, open-label study. Lancet Oncol. 2014 Mar;15(3):323-332
Day(s) Performed
Varies
Report Available
5 to 10 daysTest Classification
This test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements. It has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.CPT Code Information
81210
LOINC Code Information
| Test ID | Test Order Name | Order LOINC Value |
|---|---|---|
| BRAFB | cfDNA BRAF V600 Test, Blood | 93690-6 |
| Result ID | Test Result Name | Result LOINC Value |
|---|---|---|
| 48044 | Result Summary | 50397-9 |
| 48045 | Result | 93690-6 |
| 48046 | Interpretation | 69047-9 |
| 48047 | Additional Information | 48767-8 |
| 48048 | Specimen | 31208-2 |
| 48049 | Source | 31208-2 |
| 48050 | Released By | 18771-6 |
| 606201 | Method | 85069-3 |
| 606202 | Disclaimer | 62364-5 |
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send an Oncology Test Request (T729) with the specimen.
Reference Values
An interpretive report will be provided.
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