Medical experts recommend biomarker testing for people with advanced or metastatic non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Test results can help you and your health care team make a shared decision on your treatment.
In this section we will discuss the different types of biomarker testing available.
Biomarker testing can also be called:
Mutations can be found using single or comprehensive biomarker tests.
Single biomarker test
Single biomarker tests look for 1 specific driver mutation in a tumor sample.
Comprehensive biomarker test
Comprehensive biomarker testing (also known as next-generation sequencing or NGS) looks for multiple mutations at the same time on the same tumor sample.
There are more than 8 driver mutations recommended for biomarker testing in NSCLC.
Benefits of comprehensive biomarker testing
Biomarker testing is an important part of your journey because it may help identify the best treatment options that are available for you
Before testing
After testing
Why is comprehensive biomarker testing so important?
Comprehensive biomarker testing is important because it may help identify a treatment that may be right for you. Biomarker testing helps identify if you have any biomarkers that may be treated with an approved targeted therapy or if you are eligible for participation in a clinical trial.
Studies have shown that people with NSCLC who are treated with a targeted therapy based on their unique biomarker may have better outcomes than those who are not.
Also, medical experts have found that some NSCLC caused by driver mutations may not respond as well to less-targeted options like immunotherapy. Start by talking to your health care team about comprehensive biomarker testing to identify treatment options for your specific type of lung cancer.
How is comprehensive biomarker testing done?
Comprehensive biomarker testing can be done using either a tumor sample from surgery or biopsy or in some cases a blood sample (liquid biopsy). After the biopsy or blood sample is collected, it is sent to a laboratory for testing.
How long does it take to get results from comprehensive biomarker testing?
After comprehensive biomarker testing has been ordered, the test results are generally available within 2 to 4 weeks. Liquid biopsy results may take less time. It is very important to confirm with your health care team when you should expect to receive the results.
What are the costs of biomarker testing?
Biomarker testing is often covered by private insurance (like HMOs or PPOs), Medicare, or some Medicaid plans. And you may be able to get help paying for it. Talk with your health care team or contact your insurance company to find out more.
Non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
The most common form of lung cancer, which is described by the way the cancer cells look under a microscope (not small).
Targeted Therapy
A treatment that targets the driver mutations that cause cancer growth.
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