Topics Under Review - Evaluation of Genomic Applications in Practice and Prevention (EGAPP)

Disorder: Colorectal cancer

Test: DNA-based test for UGT1A1 variant alleles.

Clinical Scenario: The drug irinotecan belongs to a general group of chemotherapy drugs (topoisomerase inhibitors) that are widely used to treat colorectal cancer.

The UGT1A1 test is intended to identify patients with colorectal cancer entering treatment that includes irinotecan who have decreased UDP-glucuronosyltransferase activity that is associated with certain genotypes (particularly two copies of the UGT1A1*28 allele in Caucasians); such individuals are at increased risk for a toxic reaction to irinotecan therapy. Knowledge of the variant genotype may allow changes in management (e.g., drug choice, dosage of irinotecan) that would improve outcomes by avoiding adverse drug reactions.

>> EGAPP considerations for topic selection

Key criteria: Prevalence and severity of colorectal cancer; irinotecan therapy is an increasingly common intervention; relevance to healthcare providers and patients for decision-making; FDA-approved test with potential impact on clinical practice.
Other considerations: Limited literature that allows application of EGAPP methodology for a targeted review.

Evidence Report: pending
EGAPP Recommendation: pending
See other products: pending
Last revised: 06/27/07

DISCLAIMER: This information is NOT intended to be a complete or comprehensive review but just an introduction to the topic. The topics listed are NOT endorsed by nor should Imply Endorsement of the test or Manufacturer by EGAPP. Selection of any topic by EGAPP for an evidence review may result in changes to the disorder, test technology, clinical scenario, and EGAPP considerations for selection.