Onconomics

Onconomics is a laboratory chemosensitivity test. According to the test description, it examines how individual cytotoxic drugs, meaning conventional chemotherapy drugs, affect cancer cells obtained from the patient. It is intended for people with already diagnosed cancer. The clinical benefit of such tests has not been confirmed, so the test does not replace standard diagnosis, and an oncologist decides on treatment.

Who the test is for

• adults with already diagnosed cancer;
• patients discussing additional, non-standard information alongside a treatment plan with their oncologist;
• people whose doctor has suggested the test or who want to consider it together with their doctor;
• people who understand that the test’s benefit for treatment outcomes is unproven and that the result alone does not change therapy.

The test is not intended for healthy people or for cancer detection. It is also not a replacement for tissue analysis, imaging or tumour markers ordered by an oncologist.

What the test reveals

According to the test description, Onconomics provides information on the effect of individual drugs on cancer cells obtained from the patient. The result shows how cells responded to individual drugs under laboratory conditions.

It is also important to know the limitations. Cells in the laboratory do not always behave like a tumour in the body, where blood vessels, the immune system, liver and kidneys influence a drug’s effect. The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) concluded that chemotherapy sensitivity and resistance tests are not recommended for treatment selection outside clinical trials. Chemotherapy continues to be selected according to tumour type and stage, tissue findings and guidelines.

The broader test, Onconomics Plus, according to its description, examines targeted therapies and natural substances as well as cytotoxic drugs.

The procedure and preparation

The sample is venous blood, and the blood draw itself takes a few minutes. Special preparation, such as fasting, is not specified in the test description. You will receive exact instructions for sample collection and submission before coming. Agree with your oncologist when to have blood drawn in relation to surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

What your result means

Your oncologist interprets the report together with tissue findings, disease stage and your general condition. The result alone is not a basis for changing treatment.

• A drug labelled effective acted on cells in the laboratory. This does not guarantee it will act the same way in the body.
• A drug labelled less effective does not mean it should not be used if your oncologist recommends it according to guidelines.
• The report as a whole is not a treatment plan. Do not stop or delay standard treatment because of the test result.

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

How to arrange testing

The test is available without a referral. A blood draw appointment is arranged in advance through the page Contact, 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 Onconomics say which chemotherapy will definitely work?

No. The test shows the cells’ response in the laboratory, rather than the effect in the body. The benefit of such tests for treatment outcomes has not been confirmed, so they are not part of standard guidelines.

What is the difference between Onconomics and Onconomics Plus?

According to the descriptions, Onconomics examines cytotoxic drugs, whereas Onconomics Plus also includes targeted therapies and natural substances. The limitations are the same for both tests.

Can I change my therapy myself based on the result?

No. Your oncologist decides every treatment change. Bring the test report to your appointment and discuss it before making any decision.

Should I discuss the test with my oncologist?

Yes, before sample collection. Your oncologist can assess whether the result makes sense in your case and how to incorporate it into the treatment plan.