Delta Medical collaborates with Amgen and CSD LAB to support molecular diagnostic infrastructure for metastatic colorectal cancer treatment in Ukraine. Through a national testing network, we help oncology teams access extended RAS testing, a prerequisite for determining eligibility for certain targeted therapies.
This collaborative model aligns Ukraine’s oncology diagnostic capabilities with international standards and creates replicable infrastructure for biomarker-driven treatment decisions across multiple disease areas.
The Evolution Toward Biomarker-Driven Treatment Decisions
Colorectal cancers that appear similar under microscopic examination often demonstrate distinct molecular characteristics. These molecular differences increasingly inform treatment selection, as specific therapies work through mechanisms that depend on intact cellular pathways.
Vectibix (panitumumab) is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with RAS wild-type metastatic colorectal cancer. The product targets the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), blocking growth signals in tumors where this pathway remains functional. However, when RAS genes carry activating mutations, growth signals bypass EGFR entirely. Anti-EGFR therapies are typically not appropriate for these patients based on clinical trial evidence.
Approximately 50-60% of metastatic colorectal cancer patients carry RAS mutations. Extended RAS testing covers KRAS and NRAS across exons 2, 3, and 4. This testing helps identify which patients may be candidates for anti-EGFR therapy as part of their overall treatment regimen.
Molecular information is one component of treatment planning. Oncologists also consider performance status, disease extent, prior therapies, tumor location, and other clinical factors when selecting appropriate regimens.
Supporting Access to Molecular Testing
Delta Medical partners with CSD LAB, a specialized diagnostics network, to support streamlined molecular testing processes across Ukrainian oncology centers. The collaboration helps oncology teams access comprehensive biomarker analysis without logistical barriers.
Oncologists submit requisitions for molecular profiling that includes extended RAS analysis along with additional biomarkers relevant to colorectal cancer treatment planning. CSD LAB performs analysis using validated next-generation sequencing platforms. Reports indicate RAS status and other molecular findings that inform treatment decisions.
Testing requires adequate tumor tissue. When initial specimens are insufficient or results are inconclusive, repeat testing may be necessary. CSD LAB communicates turnaround times to support treatment planning. Direct communication channels connect laboratory specialists with treating oncologists when technical questions arise.
Molecular testing enables treatment decisions based on tumor biology in addition to histology and clinical presentation. This represents one aspect of increasingly personalized oncology care, where molecular, clinical, radiologic, and pathologic data inform treatment strategy.
Delta Medical coordinates diagnostic logistics, supports medical education around molecular testing interpretation, and facilitates communication between laboratory and clinical teams. Regional cancer centers access specialized molecular testing capabilities without establishing complex in-house assay validation.
Collaborative Infrastructure for Multiple Disease Areas
The diagnostic coordination model developed through the Vectibix partnership extends beyond single-product applications. Modern oncology increasingly incorporates biomarker testing across disease areas. Therapies now require assessment of PD-L1 expression, HER2 amplification, NTRK fusions, microsatellite instability, and other molecular markers.
Delta Medical works with pharmaceutical partners, diagnostic laboratories, and oncology teams to support infrastructure enabling biomarker-driven treatment access. This involves regulatory expertise for product registration, medical affairs support for clinical education, coordination of diagnostic logistics through laboratory partnerships, and field support across Ukrainian hospitals and regional cancer centers.
Successful market entry for precision medicine products requires both prescribing capability and patient identification capability. Oncologists need access to validated testing, clear interpretation guidelines, and logistical support for specimen handling and result turnaround. Delta Medical collaborates with stakeholders across this pathway to address practical implementation challenges.
The infrastructure supporting molecular testing for colorectal cancer creates a foundation applicable to other tumor types and therapeutic areas where biomarker assessment guides treatment selection. This collaborative approach supports Ukraine’s oncology system in adopting diagnostic standards aligned with international practice patterns.
About Delta Medical
Delta Medical is a Swiss pharmaceutical company specializing in the marketing and distribution of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and clinical nutrition across Ukraine, CIS, and EAEU territories. We combine regulatory affairs and market access capabilities with deep therapeutic expertise in oncology and specialty care. Our teams deliver end-to-end commercialization, medical engagement, and real-world implementation. Explore partnership opportunities at www.deltaswiss.eu.
