Biomarker Testing for Cancer

How does the test work?

A healthcare provider will need to take a sample of tissue, blood or saliva. They’ll do this during a procedure like a:

• Biopsy
• Liquid biopsy (a type of blood test)
• Spit test

The actual biomarker testing happens in a lab. A lab specialist will run tests on the sample and check for tumor markers. The type of test depends on what they’re looking for. For example, they may test for:

• One specific biomarker
• Many biomarkers (sometimes called a multigene or panel test)
• Genetic mutations in healthy cells (this can show if you had a cancer-related gene variation at birth or if you developed it later in life)

Your healthcare provider can explain what the tests are trying to find.

What are the risks of this test?

There aren’t many risks with these tests. Your healthcare provider will explain any side effects before you agree to a procedure that takes a tissue or fluid sample.

What type of results do you get and what do the results mean?

Your results may show that certain treatments are an option for you. You may be eligible for:

• FDA-approved treatments: Treatments approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have been tested and are considered safe and effective for your unique diagnosis.
• Off-label treatments: Off-label treatments aren’t approved for your cancer type. But they’re approved for other cancers with the same tumor marker. This means there’s a chance the treatment may work.
• Clinical trials: You may be able to take part in a study to access a new treatment targeting cancers with a tumor marker you have.

Your results may be about your prognosis (outlook). For example, results may show you have an aggressive cancer. This tells your provider you may need more intensive treatments. It may show that the cancer responds well to treatment, and your outlook may be excellent.

Your provider will explain what your results mean for your treatment options and outlook.

What should I ask my doctor?

Ask your healthcare provider if biomarker testing will be a part of your diagnosis. If it’s not, ask if it’s an option. They can help you understand the risks and the benefits.