FRIENDSWOOD, Texas - A recent study on the DecisionDx-SCC test, developed by Castle Biosciences Inc . (NASDAQ:CSTL), has demonstrated its effectiveness in predicting metastasis risk in high-risk cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) patients, potentially guiding more accurate treatment decisions.
The research, published in Dermatology and Therapy, independently validated the test's performance, showing significant improvements in predictive accuracy when combined with existing staging systems and treatment guidelines.
The DecisionDx-SCC test classifies patients based on their tumor's gene expression profile into categories indicating low (Class 1), higher (Class 2A), or highest risk (Class 2B) of metastasis within three years. According to the study, integrating the test with the National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN) guidelines, the American Joint Committee on Cancer Staging Manual 8th Edition (AJCC8), and the Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH) staging systems can lead to more personalized treatment plans.
Ashley Wysong, M.D., M.S., the lead author of the study and a professor at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, highlighted the test's ability to incorporate biological risk into treatment plans, optimizing healthcare resources by reducing overtreatment in low-risk patients and preventing undertreatment in those with aggressive tumor biology.
The study involved a novel performance cohort of 534 patients, merged with an initial validation cohort of 420 patients, to assess the test's independent prognostic value. Results indicated that patients with Class 1, Class 2A, and Class 2B test results had 3-year metastasis-free survival rates of 94.1%, 81.1%, and 56.8%, respectively, compared to an overall population survival rate of 87.5%.
Matthew Goldberg, M.D., senior vice president at Castle Biosciences, emphasized the company's commitment to enhancing SCC patient care through the broader use of DecisionDx-SCC. The test is designed to complement clinicians' knowledge of their patient's tumor, aiming to improve prognostic accuracy and lead to improved clinical outcomes.
Castle Biosciences focuses on developing innovative tests that guide patient care across various conditions, including skin cancers, Barrett's esophagus, mental health, and uveal melanoma. The DecisionDx-SCC test is part of Castle's portfolio aimed at transforming disease management by considering individual patient and tumor biology.
This report is based on a press release statement and does not constitute an endorsement of the claims. The study's findings are subject to further research and clinical application.
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