Genetic Testing

Why is Genetic Testing so important?

One additional method we’d like to call out that can be very beneficial to our patients is genetic testing. For patients dealing with any type of cancer, earlier detection plays a crucial role in increasing the odds of treatment being effective. That is why germline genetic testing is so important. The results of these tests can help patients in the below ways:

• Provide guidance for recurrent disease.
• Provide guidance for second-line systemic therapy. 
• Detect if the patient is at risk for other forms of cancer.
• Help predict if a patient’s relatives are also at risk of developing cancer.

Are there different types of Genetic Testing?

Different panels of genetic testing can be ordered depending on what is being tested for. Our team will work with you and help determine which panel offers the most diagnostic benefits. The panels can include:

• The Common Hereditary Panel: This panel looks at genes to help identify cancer in the breast, ovary, uterus, prostate, and gastrointestinal system, including the stomach, colon, rectum, small bowel, and pancreas.
• The Multi-Cancer Panel: As a bit more extensive than the previously listed panel, the multi-cancer panel screens for cancer that includes breast, ovary, uterus, colorectal, gastric, pancreatic, prostate as well as endocrine, genitourinary, skin, brain/nervous system, sarcoma, and hematologic.
  

Most major insurance companies help cover the cost of genetic testing, and our team will work to help you understand the expenses before calling for this procedure.