P05.02.B ACCESS TO MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTIC TECHNIQUES FOR ADULT DIFFUSE GLIOMAS IN ARGENTINA

Abstract BACKGROUND Adult diffuse gliomas are primary central nervous system tumors that require a diagnosis based on histological and molecular characteristics. In Argentina, access to these diagnostic methods is uneven, with a concentration in urban centers and limitations in peripheral regions. This study analyzes disparities in access to molecular diagnostic methods for adult diffuse gliomas. MATERIALS AND METHODS This was an observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional study conducted through a structured survey of 52 healthcare professionals in Argentina. The availability of key biomarkers (IDH1/2, ATRX, TP53, MGMT, among others) was assessed, differentiating between public and private healthcare sectors. Statistical association tests (Chi-square and Cochran-Armitage) were performed. RESULTS A total of 67% reported access to IDH1/2 and 1p/19q codeletion, with the highest availability in Buenos Aires City. ATRX and TP53 were available in 62%, while TERTp and H3K27M were the least accessible (14%). Professionals in the private sector had greater access to TP53 (p=0.0205), and those with a higher patient load had better availability of IDH1 R132H and TERTp (p<0.002). Patients without health coverage had less access to diagnostic tests (p=0.009 for ATRX), with significant differences in IDH R132H and 1p/19q codeletion coverage. CONCLUSION Disparities exist in access to molecular diagnostics based on region, healthcare sector, and insurance coverage. Improving infrastructure and funding is essential to achieving equity in glioma diagnosis and treatment in Argentina.