How do lab findings influence treatment decisions?
Lab findings play a critical role in determining the most appropriate treatment plan for cancer patients. For instance, hormone receptor status in breast cancer (ER, PR, and HER2) can guide the use of hormone therapy or targeted drugs like trastuzumab. Similarly, the presence of specific genetic mutations can indicate whether a patient might benefit from targeted therapies or immunotherapies. These findings help oncologists create tailored treatment plans that improve outcomes and minimize side effects.