Metastat

Metastat is a laboratory test intended for people with an already diagnosed carcinoma. According to its description, the test aims to give the doctor additional information about the disease’s tendency to spread (metastasise) and about chemotherapy. The test lacks recognised clinical validation: it has not been confirmed to predict disease spread reliably or help select treatment. It does not replace standard diagnostics, and all treatment decisions are made by the oncologist.

Who is this test for

• adults with an already diagnosed carcinoma;
• patients discussing additional information alongside standard investigations with their oncologist;
• people whose doctor has suggested the test or who want to consider it together with their doctor;
• people who understand that this is a test without recognised clinical validation and that its result alone does not change treatment.

The test is not intended to detect cancer in healthy people. It is also not a replacement for biopsy, imaging or tumour markers requested by an oncologist.

What the test reveals

According to its description, Metastat is intended to assess the tendency to metastasise in patients with carcinoma and to select chemotherapy. This intended use is not the same as proven clinical benefit. Before deciding, request written information about the method, exactly what is examined and what the report looks like.

It is also important to understand the limitations. There is not yet sufficient evidence that results from tests of this kind improve treatment outcomes, so they are not part of standard guidelines. Whether the disease has spread is determined by examination, imaging such as CT or magnetic resonance imaging, and biopsy if needed. Chemotherapy is selected according to the tumour type and stage, tissue findings, the patient’s general condition and guidelines.

The test and preparation

The sample is venous blood, and collection takes a few minutes. Special preparation, such as fasting, is not specified in the test description. You will receive exact instructions for collecting and submitting the sample before your visit. Agree the timing of blood collection relative to surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy with your oncologist.

What your results mean

The oncologist interprets the result alongside all other findings and the course of the disease. The result alone is not a basis for changing treatment.

• A result suggesting a lower tendency to spread does not exclude disease spread. Follow-up examinations and imaging requested by the oncologist remain equally important.
• A result suggesting a greater tendency to spread is not proof of metastases. Imaging and biopsy show whether secondary tumours are present.
• Chemotherapy information is not a treatment recommendation. The oncologist decides on medicines according to guidelines; never change or stop treatment yourself.

If you develop a high fever, difficulty breathing or severe pain during treatment, contact your oncologist immediately or call emergency services on 194 or 112.

How to arrange testing

The test is performed without a referral. Arrange blood collection in advance through the Contactpage, where you will also receive sample instructions. Prices for all tests and panels are listed in the price list. Before deciding on the test, we recommend discussing its purpose and limitations with your oncologist.

Frequently asked questions

Can Metastat detect cancer or metastases?

No. The test is intended for people with an established diagnosis; metastases are confirmed through imaging and biopsy. The test result is not proof that the disease has or has not spread.

Is the test part of standard cancer treatment?

No. The test is not included in carcinoma treatment guidelines, and its benefit for patients has not been confirmed in clinical studies. It therefore provides additional information, not a recommendation.

Can I change my treatment myself based on the result?

No. The oncologist decides on every treatment change, considering all results and your general condition. Bring the report to your appointment and discuss it with your oncologist.

How does Metastat differ from tumour markers?

Tumour markers such as CEA or CA 15-3 are used according to guidelines to monitor some cancers. Metastat does not have such a role in guidelines, so it does not replace the markers your oncologist requests for your disease.