Prof Eva Compérat speaks to ecancer about a uro-pathologist perspective on BRCA testing in prostate cancer and highlights the critical role of tissue quality, sample preparation, and molecular workflows in ensuring accurate results.

Her discussion includes tissue collection and selection, pre-analytical assessment of tumour content, and the importance of proper fixation, storage, and DNA quality. The process of next-generation sequencing (NGS) is outlined, along with considerations in panel design and mutation detection, including BRCA1/2 and other HRR genes.

She also addresses challenges such as limited or poor-quality samples, variants of uncertain significance (VUS), and the risk of false results due to technical factors. The complementary roles of somatic and germline testing are emphasized, with guidance on when alternative approaches like liquid biopsy may be considered.

Overall, the importance of clear testing strategies, high-quality samples, and close collaboration with pathology teams is underscored to support accurate diagnosis and optimal patient management.

To watch the other videos in this series click here.