Mesothelioma Test Launched !!

Prometheus Laboratories Inc. recently announced the nationwide commercial launch of the diagnostic test ProOnc Mesothelioma Dx, in addition to two other diagnostic products. The company originally received United States rights to the three cancer tests from Rosetta Genomics in April this year.

The three tests Prometheus acquired rights to were initially labeled miRview™ meso, miRview™ mets and miRview™ squamous. Now they are called ProOnc Mesothelioma Dx, ProOnc TumorSource Dx and ProOnc Squamous Dx.

Rosetta Genomics developed the tests after studying microRNA technology, which consists of non-coding genes that are sensitive to biomarkers.

According to Harvey Pass, M.D., Professor of Cardiothoracic Surgery and Director of the Division of Thoracic Surgery and Thoracic Oncology at New York University Langone Medical Center, “MicroRNAs are small, non-coding sequences of RNA that are critically important in many biological and pathological processes. The sensitivity and specificity of microRNA-based diagnostics should enable clinicians to differentiate particular cancer tissues with increased confidence, which may ultimately guide medical oncologists to deliver the safest and most efficacious therapy for their patients.”

The severe latency period associated with mesothelioma can provide a significant challenge for mesothelioma doctors trying to diagnose patients. In some cases, symptoms of mesothelioma may take as long as 50 years to develop. The similarity of mesothelioma symptoms to other, less serious conditions also contributes to the difficulty of diagnosing patients.

The test ProOnc Mesothelioma Dx uses biomarkers in microRNAs to distinguish the presence of mesothelioma from other cancers of the lung and pleura (the lining of the lungs). This test may make it easier for doctors to obtain an accurate diagnosis for patients.

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What Is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the membrane that covers and protects various internal organs of the body (mesothelium). The mesothelium is composed of two layers of specialized cells known as mesothelial cells. One layer directly surrounds an organ; the other forms a protective sac around the organ. The most common form of mesothelioma affects the membrane or sac that lines the lungs (pleura). Other common sites include the membrane lining the stomach (peritoneum) and the membrane lining the heart (pericardium).

The term "cancer" refers to a group of diseases characterized by abnormal, uncontrolled cellular growth (e.g., mesothelial cells) that invades surrounding tissues and may spread (metastasize) to distant bodily tissues or organs via the bloodstream, the lymphatic system, or other means. Different forms of cancer, including mesothelioma, may be classified based upon the cell type involved, the specific nature of the malignancy, the tissues or organs affected, and the disease's clinical course. Symptoms of mesothelioma vary depending upon the location, type and stage of the cancer. Approximately 70 to 80 percent of cases of mesothelioma result from exposure to asbestos. Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear until up to 50 years after initial exposure to asbestos. However, after symptoms began apparent, mesothelioma may rapidly progress to cause life-threatening complications.

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