What to expect from genomic tumour profiling for ovarian cancer

A laboratory analyses genetic features in the cancer cells, rather than testing whether you inherited a change. The report may identify changes linked with a possible medicine, suggest that a further inherited-risk test could be useful, or find no change with an established treatment link. A result does not by itself diagnose ovarian cancer, predict exactly how your cancer will behave, or confirm that a medicine will work. Your oncologist combines it with the cancer type, stage, previous treatment, general health, and your preferences.

Your team checks whether stored tissue from a biopsy or operation is suitable. If not, they may discuss another sample; the choice depends on your circumstances. The laboratory then processes the sample and sends a report to your oncology team. Ask when the result is expected and how it will affect the next decision. Keep a copy of the report and ask whether the result has implications for relatives, because tumour testing and inherited testing answer different questions. Learn more about [Genomic Tumour Profiling](/treatments/diagnostics-and-staging/genomic-tumour-profiling/) and [Ovarian Cancer](/conditions/ovarian-cancer/).

The profiling procedure itself may not require a new procedure if stored tissue is used. Contact your team promptly if a new biopsy is planned and you develop increasing pain, bleeding, redness, swelling, or fever afterward. Seek urgent help for severe bleeding, trouble breathing, fainting, or rapidly worsening illness. These symptoms need assessment regardless of what the profiling report shows.

Which sample will be tested, and is another procedure needed? Which findings could change my treatment options? Does this test look for inherited changes, or should I have a separate genetics discussion? When will we review the report, and what happens if it is inconclusive?