RYE BROOK, NY--(Marketwire - Sep 11, 2012) - CBLPath, a Sonic Healthcare USA laboratory, is pleased to announce the addition of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation analysis to its growing in-house molecular test menu.

Also known as ErbB-1 and as HER1 in humans, EGFR is a cell-surface receptor that binds epidermal growth factors, resulting in the activation of several signaling pathways that stimulate cell growth, proliferation and migration. Certain mutations in the EGFR gene result in a constitutively active form of EGFR that leads to uncontrolled cell growth and proliferation. The EGFR signaling pathway also includes KRAS and BRAF; oncogenic mutations in these genes can lead to cancer, as well.

CBLPath's new EGFR mutation analysis test screens for genetic mutations that may be found in several types of cancer including non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) and colorectal cancer. This molecular assay uses the most up-to-date sequencing technology to deliver definitive diagnostic information, aiding physicians in determining whether individual cancer patients are suitable for certain targeted therapy treatments based on their test findings.

Several anti-cancer therapeutics directed against the EGFR protein have been developed In light of the role that the EGFR signaling pathway plays in tumorigenesis, including gefitinib and erlotinib for NSCLC, and panitumumab and cetuximab for colorectal cancer.

"It's critically important to determine the nature of a patient's EGFR activating mutation because some of these genetic aberrations are associated with an increased sensitivity to anti-EGFR therapies while others are linked to a much lower response rate and even an acquired resistance to EGFR inhibitors," explained CBLPath Co-CEO and Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Carlos D. Urmacher, FCAP, FASCP.

"CBLPath is proud to equip oncologists with the detailed patient molecular profiles that they need to tailor personalized treatments and ensure the utmost therapeutic efficacy and minimization of adverse effects."

The addition of EGFR mutation analysis testing complements CBLPath's existing test menu for non-small cell lung carcinoma and colorectal cancer (CRC). The company already offers KRAS and BRAF testing for CRC.

For NSCLC, CBLPath provides the leading-edge, FDA-approved ALK FISH companion diagnostic, which examines the ALK gene via fluorescence in situ hybridization to aid physicians in making the best treatment decisions for late-stage NSCLC patients who may be candidates for XALKORI^® (crizotinib) targeted therapy manufactured by Pfizer, Inc.

The ALK FISH test and EGFR mutation analysis offered by CBLPath are both recommended for NSCLC patients by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network [nccn.org] as well as in collaborative lung cancer guidelines set by the College of American Pathologists [cap.org], the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer [iaslc.org], and the Association for Molecular Pathology [amp.org].

To speak with a local CBLPath representative about ordering EGFR Mutation Analysis testing, call 877.225.7284. To see the company's entire array of tests, visit www.cblpath.com and click Test Menu.

About CBLPath
CBLPath, a Sonic Healthcare USA laboratory, is a national specialty lab with a unique leadership position in the convergence of anatomic, molecular and digital pathology. Beginning from a clinical perspective, we harness molecular testing and digital pathology on an anatomic pathology foundation. CBLPath is committed to helping our clients deliver better medicine, faster. At our core are pathologists; excited about technology and innovation and its promise of helping patients. Through the Best Practice™ Partnership Program we help our pathologist-clients effectively compete against centralized reference laboratories, grow their Practice and remain independent -- Keeping Medicine Local™. We provide our subspecialty physician clients comprehensive diagnostics and timely, accurate reports enabling the best patient care. For more about the company, please visit www.CBLPath.com.