Genzyme’s ERCC1 analysis by IHC provides additional guidance in therapeutic treatment decisions for patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Numerous studies have shown that evaluating the expression levels of excision repair cross-complementation group 1 (ERCC1) is important in the treatment decision making for patients with NSCLC. These results can help identify patients that may benefit from platinum-based chemotherapy.
Clinical Significance of ERCC1
- Platinum-based doublet chemotherapy is currently considered standard of care in advanced NSCLC.
- Despite great efforts to improve the survival of patients with NSCLC, a satisfactory survival level has not been achieved because the majority of patients present at an advanced stage and their tumors can exhibit an inherent resistance to chemotherapeutic reagents.
- Recent studies have suggested that low expression levels of ERCC1 are related to a better response and survival benefit from cisplatin-based chemotherapy among patients with advanced NSCLC.
- Recent studies have also found that patients with completely resected NSCLC and ERCC1-negative tumors appear to benefit from adjuvant cisplatin-based chemotherapy, whereas patients with ERCC1-positive tumors do not.
Information Sheet - ERCC1 Analysis - NSCLC (PDF)
CPT Codes:
88360(1)
Specimen Requirements:
2 Options
Option 1 - Fixed Paraffin Block with Corresponding H&E:
- Tissue should be well-fixed in formalin. If alternative fixative is used, it should be noted on the requisition.
- 0.2 cm x 0.2 cm x 0.2 cm tissue.
- Store specimen at room temperature (20-23.5°C).
- Use cold pack for transport. Be sure cold pack is not in direct contact with specimen during transport.
Option 2 - Unstained Slides:
- Send all slides within 6 weeks of cutting.
- Minimum of 4 slides per antibody.
- Precut slides from paraffin blocks in 5 micron sections.
- Mount on Poly-L-Lysine-coated or plus (+) slides.
- Air dry. Do not oven dry.
- Store specimen at room temperature (20-23.5°C).
Turnaround Time:
2-3 days
Client Services:
Oncology/Pathology
800-447-5816
Specimen Services/Pickup:
877-246-1226