New Delhi: Agilus Diagnostics, India’s largest and most trusted diagnostics network, has announced the launch of the Claudin 18.2 test, a ground-breaking diagnostic tool.
This innovation marks a significant milestone in cancer diagnostics, reinforcing the company’s commitment to leading advancements in diagnostic services.
Gastric cancer is the fifth most common cancer among men and seventh most common cancer among women in India. The aggressiveness of the disease and need for improved therapeutic options make innovations like the Claudin 18.2 test critical for improving outcomes in cancer care. Alarmingly, gastric cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death in Indian men and women between the ages of 15 and 44.
The Claudin 18.2 test is a highly specialized diagnostic tool, offering precise identification of the Claudin 18.2 protein, a crucial biomarker for gastric, pancreatic, and other cancers. By providing precise identification of this biomarker, this test empowers oncologists with critical insights, aiding in the identification of patients eligible for targeted therapies, improving outcomes in cancer treatment, and fostering personalized medicine.
Speaking on the launch, Dr Anand K, Managing Director & CEO of Agilus Diagnostics, said, “Claudin 18.2 is an essential biomarker in modern oncology especially for Gastric cancer patients. With an approved targeting antibody, this test not only enhances diagnostic precision but also bridges the gap to personalized medicine. It empowers clinicians to tailor treatments and significantly improve patient outcomes. Agilus Diagnostics is thrilled to bring this advanced tool to India and support oncologists and patients in the fight against cancer. We are committed to advancing diagnostics and healthcare by embracing the future of targeted therapies and personalized medicine, ensuring our efforts remain aligned with this transformative vision.”
Adding to this, Dr Kunal Sharma, Associate Director & HOD, Histopathology Center of Excellence at Agilus Diagnostics, commented, “In October 2024, the FDA approved zolbetuximab-clzb, a Claudin 18.2-directed antibody therapy, in combination with chemotherapy, for first-line treatment of adults with advanced HER2-negative gastric or gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) cancers that are CLDN18.2-positive. The FDA also approved VENTANA CLDN18 assay as a companion diagnostic test to identify patients eligible for treatment. Agilus Diagnostics’ launch of the FDA approved Claudin 18.2 test in India aligns with these global developments, bringing advanced diagnostic and treatment opportunities to Indian oncology care.”
Why Claudin 18.2 Matters:
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Precision Diagnosis:Detects the presence of Claudin 18.2 protein in tumor samples with unmatched accuracy.
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Personalized Treatment:Identifies patients eligible for therapies targeting Claudin 18.2, enhancing therapeutic precision.
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Improved Outcomes:Facilitates targeted interventions, potentially reducing cancer progression and improving survival rates.
