Certain patients can experience severe and potentially life-threatening reactions to fluoropyrimidines, which are anti-metabolite chemotherapy agents commonly used in cancer treatment. In this test-specific episode of the "Answers From the Lab" podcast, Ann Moyer, M.D., Ph.D., explains how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' unique pharmacogenomics tests identify individuals at risk of these reactions to help determine safe dosage and personalize therapy.

The two tests target the DPYD gene that encodes the dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) enzyme, which metabolizes about 80% of fluoropyrimidines. "Individuals with partial or complete DPD deficiency are at a much higher risk for severe and potentially life-threatening adverse reactions when they are given a standard dose of fluoropyrimidines," Dr. Moyer says. "It's really important to test patients before they get their first dose so adjustments can be made before they suffer from a potentially preventable adverse reaction."

Mayo Clinic Laboratories' first DPYD test (Mayo ID: DPYDQ) targets eight relatively common genetic variants that result in either no or decreased enzyme activity. The second sequencing test (Mayo ID: DPYDZ) covers the entire coding region, splice junctions, and a clinically significant intronic variant of the DPYD gene, as well as rare sequence variants not included in the targeted genotyping assay. Results of both tests are available within 10 days.

Listen to learn more about Mayo Clinic Laboratories' unique DPYD genetic tests.

Note: Podcasts will not play back on Internet Explorer. Please use an alternative web browser, or listen from your mobile device on a preferred listening app.

Testing

DPYDQ | Dihydropyrimidine Dehydrogenase Genotype, Varies

DPYDZ | Dihydropyrimidine Dehydrogenase, DPYD Full Gene Sequencing, Varies

The latest

Unique Test Screens for Recently Identified Peripheral Neuropathy: Matthew Schultz, Ph.D., and Amy White, M.S., CGC

September 24, 2024

Matthew J. Schultz, Ph.D., and Amy L. White, M.S., CGC, explain how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' unique urine assay (Mayo ID: SORD) screens for peripheral neuropathy arising from SORD gene variants. Although recently identified, SORD-related peripheral neuropathy is fairly common.

Panel Detects Demyelinating Neuropathy Biomarkers: John Mills, Ph.D., and Divyanshu Dubey, M.B.B.S.

September 17, 2024

John Mills, Ph.D., and Divyanshu Dubey, M.B.B.S., explain how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' new test panel can distinguish among various potential causes of demyelinating neuropathies. Test results are important for managing these devastating autoimmune conditions.

Genetic Tests Identify Risk of Fluoropyrimidine-Induced Toxicity: Ann Moyer, M.D., Ph.D.

September 10, 2024

Ann Moyer, M.D., Ph.D., explains how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' unique genetic tests identify patients at high risk of severe reactions to fluoropyrimidines — a type of chemotherapy drug. Test results can guide clinical decision-making for safer cancer treatment.

View MoreView Less