Precision medicine: definitions and future perspectives

Abstract

Objective: To present information in Portuguese about the most common concepts, synonyms and uses of Precision Medicine. Bibliographic review: A narrative review was carried out, appropriate to synthesize and recognize the gaps in the existing literature. In the results, concepts and synonyms are presented, as well the use of this approach to breast cancer, colon cancer, leukemias and lymphomas, lung cancer, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and pharmacogenetics, as well discussions about investments made in the field of precision medicine, its current applications and the limitations in the Brazilian reality. Final considerations: From the analysis of the articles presented, it is possible to notice a shortage of studies in the Brazilian field of research. It is a known fact that clinical reasoning, physical examination and agreements with the patient are still the best weapons that physicians currently have. But, studies exist and investments are gradually being made and, even in small steps, personalized medicine will still happen, in the not so distant future. Only then we will know if the promises and expectations created will really be met.