Cancer Biomarker Testing

Biomarker testing looks for specific genes, proteins and other substances in a tumor. It is different from genetic testing in that it tests a person's specific tumor makeup once they have a cancer diagnosis, not their inherited mutations that may make them more likely to get cancer.

Cancer biomarkers are used in many different ways for cancer care:

• Cancer screening
• Cancer diagnosis
• Determining the best plan for cancer treatment (including targeted therapies, immunotherapies and clinical trials)
• Tracking treatment results
• Monitoring cancer growth if a person is not on treatment

Cancer biomarking testing is done by taking a sample of cancer cells, through surgery or biopsy. A special lab creates a customized report of the findings.