Training activity information
Details
Select the correct genetic tests for patients referred with acquired haematological malignancies, to include:
- AML
- ALL
Type
Developmental training activity (DTA)
Evidence requirements
Evidence the activity has been undertaken by the trainee​.
Reflection on the activity at one or more time points after the event including learning from the activity and/or areas of the trainees practice for development.
An action plan to implement learning and/or to address skills or knowledge gaps identified.
Reflective practice guidance
The guidance below is provided to support reflection at different time points, providing you with questions to aid you to reflect for this training activity. They are provided for guidance and should not be considered as a mandatory checklist. Trainees should not be expected to provide answers to each of the guidance questions listed.
Before action
- What are the key genetic tests relevant to the diagnosis and management of AML and ALL? What are the specific markers or analyses involved in these tests?
- What are the referral criteria or clinical scenarios that would typically necessitate genetic testing for these malignancies?
- What is your current understanding of the patient pathway for acquired haematological malignancies and where genetic testing fits in?
- Will you discuss specific cases or scenarios with your training officer to clarify your understanding of test selection?
- What resources (e.g., laboratory guidelines, relevant literature, previous case notes) will you review to prepare for this activity?
- What possible challenges might you anticipate in selecting the correct tests (e.g., complex referral information, multiple testing options)? How might you approach these challenges?
In action
- How are you currently approaching the selection, and what specific guidelines, protocols, or clinical details are you drawing upon right now to decide which genes or panels are most appropriate for the suspected malignancy?
- What challenges are you encountering in this moment, such as incomplete clinical information or an overwhelming range of testing options, and how effective are your strategies in identifying the most relevant tests for diagnosis and prognosis?
- How are you adapting to uncertainty, for instance by considering alternative tiered testing strategies or seeking immediate senior guidance, to ensure your selections remain within your scope of practice and available laboratory resources?
On action
- What were the key referral reasons for the cases you considered?
- What range of genetic tests did you consider?
- Were there any specific clinical details that significantly influenced your test selection?
- Did you improve your understanding of the appropriate genetic tests for AML and ALL?
- Did you learn more about the specific indications for different genetic tests in these malignancies?
- Were there any instances where your initial thoughts on test selection changed based on further information or analysis? What prompted this change?
- What resources or guidelines will you consult in the future when selecting genetic tests for acquired haematological malignancies?
- Are there any specific areas of genetic testing for AML or ALL that you need to explore further?
- How will you ensure you stay up-to-date with the evolving landscape of genetic testing in this area?
Beyond action
- Having gained more experience in the lab and through other training activities, do you now approach the selection of genetic tests for acquired haematological malignancies with a different perspective?
- How has your understanding of the clinical context of AML and ALL, potentially gained from multidisciplinary team meetings (as suggested in other modules8), influenced how you view your earlier decisions on test selection?
- Can you identify any instances in your current practice where the foundational knowledge gained from this training activity has informed your decisions or problem-solving?
- Considering future advancements in genetic testing for these malignancies, how will the principles learned in this activity help you adapt to new technologies and algorithms?
Relevant learning outcomes
| # | Outcome |
|---|---|
| # 1 |
Outcome
Apply appropriate sample selection criteria for the commonly referred cancer samples, taking into account the implications of the referral with respect to sample type, sampling mixed cell populations, limits of detection, sensitivity of assay and patient management. |
| # 2 |
Outcome
Select the laboratory testing strategy for the commonly referred cancer samples at all stages of the patient pathway. |