How Cancer Genomic Profiling Supports Clinical Decision Making in Oncology
Cancer care is becoming increasingly personalized, with treatment decisions guided not only by tumour type and stage, but also by molecular characteristics. Cancer genomic profiling helps clinicians identify genetic alterations within a tumour that may inform diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment planning, particularly for patients with advanced or metastatic disease.
At OncoHelix, we work with healthcare providers across Canada to deliver tumour tissue and liquid biopsy genomic testing that integrates smoothly into clinical workflows and supports timely, informed oncology care.
Understanding Cancer Genomic Profiling
Cancer genomic profiling involves analyzing tumour DNA to identify genetic changes such as mutations, copy number alterations, or gene fusions. These molecular findings can help clinicians understand tumour biology and identify biomarkers that may be relevant for targeted therapies, immunotherapies, or clinical trial eligibility.
Rather than testing for one biomarker at a time, comprehensive genomic profiling panels evaluate multiple genes in a single test. This approach can reduce the need for repeat testing, minimize delays, and provide a more complete molecular picture early in the care pathway, which has been shown to support faster access to appropriate targeted therapies in Canadian oncology settings (Sheffield et al., 2023).
When Is Cancer Genomic Profiling Used?
Genomic profiling is most commonly used in oncology settings where molecular information may influence management decisions. This includes:
· Advanced or metastatic cancers where targeted therapies are available
· Situations where standard treatments have been exhausted
· Cases where tumour behaviour is atypical or unclear
· Evaluation for clinical trial eligibility
By incorporating genomic testing earlier in appropriate cases, clinicians may gain insights that help guide treatment selection and sequencing.
Tumour Tissue Testing and Liquid Biopsy: How They Fit Together
Cancer genomic profiling can be performed using tumour tissue or through liquid biopsy, which analyzes circulating tumour DNA from a blood sample. Each method has a role in oncology practice.
Tumour tissue testing
Tissue-based testing remains a foundational approach in cancer genomic profiling. It allows direct analysis of tumour material and is often used for initial comprehensive profiling. Tissue testing can identify a broad range of genomic alterations and is commonly ordered following biopsy or surgical resection.
Liquid biopsy testing
Liquid biopsy offers a less invasive option when tumour tissue is limited, inaccessible, or when repeat testing is needed. Because it relies on a blood sample, liquid biopsy may support faster access to molecular results and can be useful for monitoring disease evolution over time.
In practice, tissue and liquid biopsy approaches are often complementary. Clinicians may use tissue testing for initial profiling and liquid biopsy to support additional testing or follow-up as needed.
Practical Considerations for Ordering Genomic Tests
When ordering cancer genomic profiling, several factors help ensure testing is effective and actionable:
· Selecting the appropriate test panel based on cancer type and clinical question
· Providing relevant clinical context, including diagnosis and treatment history
· Ensuring proper sample collection and handling
· Understanding expected turnaround times and reporting formats
Canadian health system analyses suggest that earlier access to comprehensive genomic testing can shorten time to appropriate treatment selection and reduce downstream system costs when compared with sequential single-gene testing approaches (Sheffield et al., 2023). Clear communication between the ordering clinician and the diagnostic laboratory supports accurate testing and meaningful interpretation of results.
Supporting Oncology Workflows at OncoHelix
OncoHelix provides cancer genomic profiling using both tumour tissue and liquid biopsy modalities. Our panel-based testing options are designed to support a range of oncology use cases and integrate into existing clinical and laboratory workflows.
We collaborate closely with oncologists, hospitals, research groups, and industry partners to deliver clear reports that highlight clinically relevant findings. Our goal is to support timely access to molecular insights while maintaining high standards for test quality and communication.
Find more information about our cancer genomic profiling services here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between comprehensive genomic profiling and single-gene testing?
Comprehensive genomic profiling evaluates multiple genes and biomarkers in one test, while single-gene testing focuses on one alteration at a time. Panel-based testing can help reduce the need for sequential testing and provide broader insight earlier in the care process.
How does liquid biopsy support cancer care?
Liquid biopsy may be used when tumour tissue is unavailable or difficult to obtain, or when repeat testing is needed. It offers a blood-based option that can support timely molecular analysis in certain clinical scenarios.
Who should consider cancer genomic profiling?
Genomic profiling is typically considered for patients with advanced or metastatic cancer, or when molecular information may influence treatment planning or trial eligibility. Test selection should always be guided by clinical judgement and patient-specific factors.
Conclusion
Cancer genomic profiling plays an important role in modern oncology by providing molecular insights that support informed clinical decision making. By combining tumour tissue testing and liquid biopsy approaches, clinicians can access valuable information that complements traditional diagnostic methods.
OncoHelix supports healthcare providers across Canada with cancer genomic profiling services designed to fit real-world oncology workflows and deliver meaningful, timely results.
For more information about cancer genomic profiling or to discuss testing options, contact OncoHelix.
Reference
Sheffield, B. S., Eaton, K., Emond, B., Lafeuille, M. H., Hilts, A., Lefebvre, P., Morrison, L., Stevens, A. L., Ewara, E. M., & Cheema, P. (2023). Cost savings of expedited care with upfront next generation sequencing testing versus single gene testing among patients with metastatic non small cell lung cancer based on current Canadian practices. Current Oncology, 30(2), 2348–2365. https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol30020180