Genomic (Somatic) Testing
Genomic (Somatic) Testing
Genomic testing for prostate cancer is the testing of cancer cells themselves to identify mutations that occurred during cancer development. The results can help predict how likely a tumor is to spread, how aggressively it will grow, and the risk of recurrence after surgery.
Genomic testing for prostate cancer (also called Biomarker testing or somatic testing) involves analyzing the genetic material (the entire genome) of prostate cells. It allows you and your medical team to make informed decisions about management and treatment of the disease.
Biomarker testing can be especially helpful for people who are newly diagnosed with prostate cancer that's still confined to the prostate. Genomic tests can cost between $3,800 and $5,000, but are usually covered by Medicare and some private insurers.
Important mutations include:
- PTEN loss
- TP53 mutations
- TMPRSS2-ERG fusion
- AR amplification
- DNA repair defects
Applications:
- Treatment selection
- Prognosis assessment
- Clinical trial eligibility
- Resistance monitoring
Decipher from Veracyte is a tissue-based genomic test that analyzes 22 RNA biomarkers to predict the risk of prostate cancer spreading. Decipher is considered the most validated tissue-based gene expression test for prostate cancer. You can find details in a recent presentation to the Prostate Forum, 23-08 "Use of Decipher Genomic Classifier in Newly Diagnosed Prostate Cancer".
Genomic testing is different from genetic testing, which is a test to determine if you have a germline (inherited or hereditary) mutation. Visit Biomarkers and Genomic Testing at Zero Prostate Cancer for details.
This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional