KRAS mutation

Testing for KRAS mutation helps doctors determine the best cancer treatment.

KRAS mutation Overview

Reviewed: April 22, 2014
Updated: 

The KRAS gene performs an important function in normal tissue signaling. However, sometimes harmful changes (mutations) in these genes can happen. When this happens, the cells do not function correctly. The mutation of a KRAS gene plays an important role in the development of many cancers. Testing for the mutation will help doctors determine the best treatment.

A normal test will be negative for a mutation of the KRAS gene.

Technique

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Tumor biopsy
Blood marrow biopsy
Blood draw

What the results mean

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People with a certain change or mutation in the KRAS gene in their tumor do not benefit from either Erbitux or Vectibix. 

People with the certain change in the KRAS gene will help doctors determine the best effective treatment.