Oncocount

According to the test description, Oncocount measures the number of circulating tumour cells in blood, meaning carcinoma cells that have detached from a tumour and entered the bloodstream. It is intended for people with an already diagnosed carcinoma. The report provides additional information with no recognised role in treatment decisions and does not replace standard diagnostics; decisions are made by the oncologist.

Who the test is intended for

• adults with an already diagnosed carcinoma;
• patients discussing additional information alongside standard disease monitoring with their oncologist;
• people for whom information about the number of circulating cells is sufficient, without determining their characteristics;
• people who understand the test’s limitations and know that the report alone does not change treatment.

The test is not intended to detect cancer in healthy people. It is also not a replacement for follow-up examinations, imaging tests or tumour markers requested by the oncologist.

What the test reveals

According to the test description, Oncocount provides information only on the presence and concentration of circulating carcinoma cells in the blood. It does not determine their characteristics (immunophenotype). According to the description, those characteristics are included in Oncotrace, while the test tailored to particular types of carcinoma is Oncotrail.

The test description also mentions information about so-called progenitor cells, which are associated with possible disease recurrence. There is currently insufficient evidence to use this information to assess disease recurrence. Circulating tumour cells are the subject of extensive research, but their measurement is not part of standard guidelines for monitoring or treatment selection.

What the test involves and how to prepare

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

What your result means

The report is interpreted by the oncologist alongside an examination, imaging tests and other results. The result alone is not a basis for changing treatment.

• No cells or few cells found: does not mean that the disease is absent or will not recur. Follow-up according to the oncologist’s plan remains equally important.
• A higher number of cells found: does not definitely mean that the disease is progressing or has recurred. This is established through an examination, imaging tests and other results.
• The cell count has changed between two reports: there is insufficient evidence on how to interpret such a change, so it must not on its own be a reason for changing treatment.

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

How to arrange testing

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

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Oncocount and Oncotrace?

According to its description, Oncocount determines only the presence and number of circulating tumour cells. Oncotrace determines their characteristics as well as their number. Neither test is part of standard guidelines.

Can Oncocount detect cancer in a healthy person?

No. The test is not intended for screening or cancer detection. National screening programmes and consulting a doctor when symptoms persist are important for early detection.

Can the report replace CT or tumour markers?

No. The oncologist monitors the course of the disease through examination, imaging tests and markers recommended by guidelines for your cancer type. Oncocount can only provide additional information.

Should I discuss the test with my oncologist?

Yes, before sample collection. The oncologist can assess whether the report makes sense in your case and how to integrate it with other results.