Precision medicine in oncology standard of care

Abstract

Objectives: To review the histologic subtypes and staging of non-small cell lung cancer and metastatic melanoma, as well as the molecular markers used to direct standard therapy.

Data sources: Book chapters and journal articles from medical and nursing literature, as well as published clinical guidelines.

Conclusion: Patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer and metastatic melanoma have had a paucity of treatment options, most fraught with toxicity with limited benefit. Increased understanding of tumor genetics and molecular markers has expanded the treatment options for these patients, often providing them with durable responses and improved quality of life.

Implications for nursing practice: To provide education and support to their patients, nurses caring for these patients need to understand the role that genetics and molecular markers play in directing these therapies.

Keywords: Precision medicine; molecular targets; oncology standard of care.