For many patients, the results of genetic sequencing of tumor cells can reveal a new treatment that extends life. In the case of Telitha Greiner, this type of genetic testing was able to improve her quality of life as well. Here is her story:

In her own words

“A colonoscopy in 2013 revealed a cancer that had metastasized and spread to my liver and lungs,” said Telitha Greiner. “It was stage four. I live in Ogden and a friend in St. George said I should come to St. George and see Dr. Lincoln Nadauld. I’m so glad I did. What a wonderful doctor and person he is.”

Dr. Nadauld serves as the Medical Director for Intermountain Precision Genomics for Cancer. The research he is leading in St. George is extending the lives and quality of life of stage four cancer patients around the nation. “The genetic testing done by Dr. Nadauld revealed that one of the cancer drugs I was taking that had particularly painful side effects was not genetically effective,” Telitha said. “It wasn’t doing me any good and caused a very painful skin condition. I am so grateful to know that I don’t have to take it anymore and for the state-of-the-art care I am receiving at Intermountain.”

Patients are the driving force behind the complex work that is done in the laboratory. Telitha Greiner is no exception. Her story is an example of Precision Genomics in action.

Intermountain Healthcare Precision Genomics personalizes treatment for cancer by testing for all types of genetic mutations. The TheraMap test offers genetic testing for patients who have failed traditional standard of care treatment options.

To learn more about Intermountain Precision Genomics and this type of personalized medicine, visit precisiongenomics.org.