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Professional Technical IVT

actionable mutation

A genetic alteration for which targeted therapies are available or under development.

Full Definition

A genetic alteration identified through molecular profiling that can be specifically targeted with existing or investigational therapies. These mutations guide treatment decisions and are distinguished from variants of unknown significance. The term is critical in precision oncology reporting as it directly influences therapeutic recommendations and patient outcomes.

Usage

Usage note: Always lowercase unless beginning a sentence. Distinguish from general 'mutation' in clinical contexts.

In Context

  • "The molecular tumor board identified three actionable mutations that warranted immediate therapeutic intervention." — Clinical report
  • "Patient eligibility for the clinical trial was determined by the presence of actionable mutations in the EGFR pathway." — Research protocol

Also known as

targetable mutation druggable mutation

Contrasted with

variant of unknown significance passenger mutation

Don't confuse with

pathogenic variant somatic mutation

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