Cancer Genomics for the Clinician

The book begins with a brief overview of the various types of genetic alterations that are encountered in cancer, followed by accessible and applicable information on next generation sequencing technology and bioinformatics, tumor heterogeneity, whole genome, exome and transcriptome sequencing, epigenomics, and data analysis and interpretation. It provides essential explanations of concepts, terminology, and methods. The book includes tips for interpreting and analyzing molecular data, as well as a discussion of molecular predictors for targeted therapies covering hematologic malignancies and solid tumors. It explains the use of FDA-approved genomic-based targeted therapies for breast cancer, lung cancer, sarcomas, gastrointestinal cancers, urologic cancers, head and neck cancer, thyroid cancer, and many more. The book provides essential understanding of the molecular and genetic basis of cancer and the clinical aspects that have led to advancements in diagnosis and treatment. It describes how cancer genomics and next generation sequencing informs cancer screening, risk factors, therapeutic options, and clinical management across cancer types. The book explains what mutations are, what tests are needed, and how to interpret the results and provides information on FDA-approved targeted therapies that are being used in the clinic. Finally, it covers different sequencing platforms and technologies and how they perform in research settings.