A nationwide survey on current clinical practices for diagnosis and treatment of patients with BRAF-mutated melanoma and BRAF-mutated colorectal cancer in Argentina

Abstract

Background: v-Raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B1 (BRAF) mutation occurs in approximately 50% of cutaneous melanoma and in 10% of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). BRAF testing is recommended as good clinical practice, since it is critical for decision-making regarding adjuvants and treatment selection. In Argentina, there is a considerable knowledge gap with respect to how often BRAF testing is indicated, the delay between the time points at which the test is ordered and the results are received, how much external factors influence this delay, and how diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of melanoma and CRC are affected. Thus, the aim of this project was to provide insight into current clinical practices for diagnosis and treatment of patients with melanoma and CRC in Argentina. Methods: A nationwide digital survey directed at clinical oncologists in private and public institutions across the country. Results: Twenty-five percent of the oncologists answered the survey (115/462), from 16 out of 24 provinces. Over 95% of oncologists consider the test as standard of care, but there are considerable delays in the time to obtain the results depending on the jurisdictions, which significantly affect decision-making in diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. Conclusion: BRAF testing is considered useful for the diagnosis and treatment of melanoma and CRC. The survey results highlight the need to optimise available resources to ensure quality care.