Genomic testing in oncology refers to the analysis of a tumor's DNA to identify specific alterations that may be driving its growth. Unlike hereditary genetic testing, which looks at inherited DNA from a blood or saliva sample, tumor genomic testing is performed on the cancer tissue itself.
Next-generation sequencing (NGS) panels can simultaneously evaluate hundreds of genes for mutations, insertions, deletions, and other alterations. Comprehensive genomic profiling can identify not only standard driver mutations but also rare alterations that may be actionable through clinical trials.
Patients are encouraged to discuss genomic testing with their oncology team to understand whether testing is appropriate, what the results may mean, and how results might influence treatment decisions.