NeoGenomics launches clinical molecular tests for comprehensive profiling of MDS

NeoGenomics, Inc. (NASDAQ: NEO), a leading provider of cancer-focused genetic testing services, announced today that it has validated and launched a number of clinical molecular tests for the comprehensive profiling of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). 

MDS is a highly complex and difficult to diagnose disease with a wide variety of clinical behaviors. Management of the disease can vary significantly depending on the severity of the disease. NeoGenomics' comprehensive MDS testing covers all of the known relevant molecular mutations associated with the disease. NeoGenomics now provides mutation analysis of the following genes, either individually or as a group: SF3B1, U2AF1, SRSF2, ZRSR2, RUNX1, EZH2, ASXL1, TET2, TP53, NRAS, CBL, PTPN11, IDH1/2 and ETV6. NeoGenomics comprehensive MDS tests can be used for confirming diagnosis, predicting prognosis, determining therapeutic strategy and monitoring response.  

Doug VanOort, the company's Chairman and CEO, said "NeoGenomics is committed to being the leading laboratory in the rapidly evolving field of molecular pathology and now offers the most extensive menu of molecular testing services targeted to cancer in the United States. We believe that full characterization of cancer at the genomic level is essential in the current practice of precision medicine"

Dr. Maher Albitar, the Company's Chief Medical Officer and Director of Research and Development, commented, "MDS is a heterogeneous disease and defining the specific molecular abnormalities that drive the disease in each specific patient is essential. NeoGenomics' MDS tests can provide profound insights into the disease and guide treating physicians in designing the proper personalized therapeutic strategy for individual patients." 

MDS is diagnosed in more than 10,000 people in the United States annually with an approximate incidence rate of 4.5 cases per 100,000 people. MDS is a myeloid malignancy characterized by peripheral blood cytopenias. The disease can arise de novo or after exposure to chemicals, chemotherapy or radiation therapy for other cancers. Establishing diagnosis can be very difficult and the presentation of MDS can overlap with multiple other reactive processes.