Biomarker Testing

Biomarker testing is at the focus of personalized medicine. The word "biomarker" refers to any of your body's molecules that can be measured to evaluate your health. Molecules can be achieved from your blood, body fluids, or tissue. Biomarker testing is a set of tests that look for these molecular symbols of health so that doctors can plan the best care. Biomarker testing can also be called "molecular testing" or "genetic testing."

Cancer occurs because of irregular changes within the human genome. The human genome is the plan—like a blueprint—by which our bodies are made and work. It is found in most cells of your body.

Cancer biomarkers contain structural changes within the genome, abnormal features of gene products, or biochemical effects of the tumor. Cancer biomarkers are used for many different features of cancer care. Some cancer biomarkers are used to measure a person's chances for developing cancer. Other cancer biomarkers are used for initial discovery (screening) and identification (diagnosis) of cancer. After a cancer analysis, biomarkers can be used to plan the best treatment. For example, it is sometimes used to know if targeted therapy would treat cancer. Biomarkers may also be used to track treatment results or cancer growing if not on treatment.

For some biomarker tests, you should first see a genetic counselor. Genetic counselors can give you information and guidance about testing so that you can make an informed decision about whether to get tested. If you will undergo biomarker testing, you may also want to check if your insurance covers the test.

Biomarker tests can be separated into three groups: chromosome, gene, and biochemical. Each of these groups is described below. In adding, examples of each type of test are given.

•          Chromosome tests
•          Gene tests
•          Biochemical tests