Genzyme’s KRAS Mutation Analysis provides additional guidance in therapeutic treatment decisions for patients with colorectal cancer (CRC).
Mutations in the KRAS gene, a known downstream signaling molecule in the EGFR signaling pathway, have been described in approximately 30-50% of colorectal carcinomas.
Recent studies have found mutations in the KRAS gene to be associated with a poor prognosis. Studies have also found KRAS mutations more frequent in patients who show limited clinical response to targeted anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (anti-EGFR) therapies. As a result, determining the KRAS mutational status of a tumor may guide therapeutic decision making for patients with CRC.
The molecular diagnostic procedure incorporates allele-specific primer extensions for detecting mutations in codons 12 and 13 of the KRAS gene.
Information Sheet - KRAS Mutation Analysis - CRC (PDF)
CPT Codes:
83890(1), 83892(3), 83898(1), 83907(1), 83909(2), 83912(1), 83914(4), 88381(1)
Specimen Requirements:
3 Options
Colorectal Tumor (and metastases) Specimen Options*
Option 1 - Formalin-fixed, Paraffin-embedded Block with Corresponding H&E slide (preferred specimen type):
- Tissues should be well-fixed in formalin. If an alternative fixative is used, it should be noted on the requisition.
- 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 5-7 days of cutting.
- Minimum of 4 slides (plus 1 H&E) or 5 slides (w/o H&E).
- Pre-cut slides from paraffin block in 7 micron sections.
- Air dry. Do not oven dry.
- Store specimen at room temperature (20-23.5°C).
Option 3 - Fresh Snap Frozen Biopsy:
- Fresh tissue snap frozen at -20°C.
- Store at -20°C.
- Ship on minimum of 10 lbs. dry ice.
*Please Note: Decalcified samples and Bouin’s, B-5, or any fixative containing heavy metals (i.e., zinc) are incompatible with sensitive DNA-based methodologies and are not acceptable sample types for this test.
Turnaround Time:
8-10 days
Client Services:
Oncology/Pathology
800-447-5816
Specimen Services/Pickup:
877-246-1226