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Pre-Implementation Assessment of the Acceptability of Using Circulating microRNAs for Follow-Up of Malignant Germ-Cell Tumors.

Accepted version
Peer-reviewed

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Type

Article

Change log

Authors

Fern, Lorna A 
Greenwood, Michelle 
Smith, Shievon 
Brand, Susan 

Abstract

BACKGROUND: MicroRNAs from the miR-371~373 and miR-302/367 clusters, particularly miR-371a-3p, are promising biomarkers for blood-based diagnosis and disease monitoring of malignant germ cell tumors (GCTs) and are nearing clinical implementation. These biomarkers have superior sensitivity and specificity compared with current markers alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG). We explored patient acceptability of using circulating microRNAs to replace multiple serial computed tomography (CT) scans in malignant GCT follow-up. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Two workshops involved interactive presentations and focus groups. Discussions were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. Qualitative thematic analysis of transcripts identified the key themes. RESULTS: Prior to the workshops, potential participants expressed concern about the adoption of new blood tests due to personal experiences of the limitations of existing (AFP/HCG) markers. Twelve males (22-57 years of age; currently, 26-59 years of age) with a malignant GCT diagnosis participated; all were in follow-up. Three had experienced recurrence. Participants had cumulative exposure of between 1 and 15 CT scans. Data saturation was reached at the second workshop; five themes emerged underpinning preference for microRNA testing versus CT scans: (1) increased sensitivity and safety, (2) reduced financial costs, (3) reduced time for testing and results, (4) practicalities, and (5) reduced anxiety. However, some participants perceived an increased diagnostic capacity of CT scans versus blood testing. CONCLUSION: This first user consultation of circulating microRNA testing for future malignant GCT follow-up suggests high acceptability with potential patient and healthcare system benefits.

Description

Keywords

Patient and public involvement, Testicular cancer, User involvement, miR-371a-3p, Adult, Biomarkers, Tumor, Circulating MicroRNA, Follow-Up Studies, Humans, Male, MicroRNAs, Middle Aged, Neoplasm Recurrence, Local, Neoplasms, Germ Cell and Embryonal, Testicular Neoplasms

Journal Title

Clin Genitourin Cancer

Conference Name

Journal ISSN

1558-7673
1938-0682

Volume Title

19

Publisher

Elsevier BV
Sponsorship
Isaac Newton Trust (1540 (f))
St Baldrick's Foundation (via Dana-Farber Cancer Institute) (2015-0743)
The authors acknowledge grant funding from the St. Baldrick’s Foundation (reference 358099) and the Isaac Newton Trust (reference 15.40f). Lorna Fern is funded by Teenage Cancer Trust. We are grateful for support from the Max Williamson Fund and from Christiane and Alan Hodson, in memory of their daughter Olivia. The funders were not involved in study design, data collection or interpretation.