Genomics Tests Forecasts Prognosis of Leukemia at Diagnosis

A genomics-based test forecasts the probable outcome of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and other cancers at the time of diagnosis.

Called HemeScan, the test could have a "transformative impact” on the clinical stratification of CLL, enabling prognosis at diagnosis and patient-appropriate risk-adapted treatment. HemeScan assays all of the genomic loci for copy number aberrations and incorporates recently identified genomic markers. The test has been validated by a number of academic centers.

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia is the most common form of the B-cell lineage lymphoproliferative disorders, accounting for about 30% of all cases in the United States and Europe. CLL is a clinically heterogeneous disorder with defined risk groups associated with a full spectrum of patient prognostic outcomes.

HemeScan was developed by CombiMatrix (Mukilteo, WA, USA) and would be marketed by Clarient (Aliso Viejo, CA, USA) to pathologists, oncologists, and patients. Based on its existing diagnostic service relationships and a nationwide sales force, Clarient will be well positioned to sell the test.

"The HemeScan test has proven to be a valuable and reliable clinical tool for the management of hematological malignancies [leukemia and lymphomas] and solid tumors characterized by unbalanced chromosomal rearrangements,” said Dr. Shelly Gunn, medical director of Combimatrix Molecular Diagnostics. "Along with CLL, the HemeScan test has also been clinically validated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome and is currently being tested for multiple myeloma.”

Clarient CEO Ron Andrews expects that HemeScan will help drive the company's hematopathology business. "Our leukemia and lymphoma business line is growing nicely as Clarient continues to adopt innovative technologies and tools to assist local pathologists and oncologists as they manage this disease. We look forward to working with CombiMatrix to support Clarient's growing lymphoma/leukemia business and as part of our continued focus on personalized medicine.”


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