Aetna to Cover Prosigna Gene Signature Assay for Breast Cancer

Nanostring Technologies, a manufacturer of molecular diagnostic tests, has announced that its Prosigna Breast Cancer Gene Signature Assay has received a positive coverage decision from the commercial health plan Aetna.

Prosigna, based on the PAM50 gene signature, was deemed medically necessary by the American Society of Clinical Oncology earlier this year, to assess the need for adjuvant chemotherapy in ER-positive, HER2-negative, node-negative breast cancer.

“Aetna is one of the nation’s largest health plans, and its decision to cover Prosigna is a clear sign of the expanded interest we are garnering from public and private payors alike,” said Brad Gray, president and CEO of NanoString Technologies, in a statement. “Our team at NanoString will continue to work with national and regional payors to ensure their patients have access to this vital test. We estimate that approximately 80% of patients indicated for Prosigna testing are now covered.”

The Prosigna assay, which faces competition from both MammaPrint (by Agendia) and Oncotype DX (by Genomic Health), is a decentralized test, which allows faster turnaround time as well as easier access. The test is indicated in female breast cancer patients who have undergone surgery in conjunction with locoregional treatment consistent with standard of care.