Irinotecan (Camptosar) DNA Test

Is your physician thinking of prescribing Camptosar (irinotecan)?

Are you concerned about drug safety?

When patients with a certain genetic variation are given a standard dose of irinotecan, they have a very high risk of severe or even fatal neutropenia, a condition that drastically lowers the ability of the body to fight off infection. This variation is called UGT1A1*28 (UDP-glucuronosyltransferase) and it exists in about 10% of the U.S. population. In 2004, the FDA reviewed the data on UGT1A1*28 and decided that this genetic change should be included in the insert for irinotecan as a risk factor for severe toxicity.

The UGT1A1 Camptosar (irinotecan) DNA Drug Reaction Test is considered appropriate for any patient planning to start Camptosar (irinotecan) therapy as people with the variation need lower starting doses.

The process is simple. We send a blood or cheek swab collection kit in the mail, and you return samples to our laboratory by overnight courier. Results are typically available within five business days.

The Testing Process

The process is simple. You can order testing directly if you have a physician prescription or your healthcare provider can request testing for you. We send a cheek swab collection kit with directions by mail. Use the return mailer to submit samples and receive results in ten days or less. Faster testing is available for an additional charge. Call a DNA testing consultant at (800) 523-3080 for details and to order.

Note: Testing is currently not available to New York residents and requires a prescription from a physician.