Cancer genomics

All about cancer genomics

A genomic test looks at the activity of certain genes in your breast tumor tissue to provide personalized information that can then be used to tailor the treatment to your specific case.

The personalization has made it possible to improve treatments by individualizing them. This is known as “tailor-made” treatment. The improvements in genetics has allowed this evolution.

For example, in cases where the expected benefit of chemotherapy is questionable, genetic testing of the tumor can be used. These genomic tests are called Oncotype DX, Mammaprint, Prosigna and EndoPredict… (many tests are available). Results are available 8 to 15 days later. If the test gives a low “recurrence risk score”, it is possible to avoid chemotherapy. On the other hand, if the score is high, chemotherapy may be beneficial in reducing the risk of recurrence and should then be considered.