Oncotrail

Oncotrail is a blood test intended for people already diagnosed with a malignant tumour. According to the test description, it determines the number and characteristics of circulating tumour cells, using a set of markers tailored to the tumour type, for example breast cancer, prostate cancer or sarcoma. The test’s clinical benefit has not been confirmed. It is not used to detect cancer and does not replace standard diagnostics or follow-up with an oncologist.

Who is this test for

• people diagnosed with a malignant tumour for which a tailored version of the test exists, for example breast cancer, prostate cancer or sarcoma;
• people whose oncologist considers that additional information about tumour cells in the blood might be useful;
• people undergoing follow-up after treatment who want an additional result alongside standard check-ups, after discussing it with an oncologist;
• people who want information about the test before talking to an oncologist.

The test is not intended for healthy people or for cancer detection (screening). If you are concerned about symptoms, contact a doctor; read about when tumour markers are tested in the article Tumour markers.

What the test reveals

Circulating tumour cells are cells that have broken away from a tumour and entered the bloodstream. According to the test description, Oncotrail determines their number and immunophenotype, meaning markers on the cell surface. The test includes only markers relevant to a particular tumour type, so separate versions exist, for example for breast and prostate cancer.

It is also important to understand the limits. Circulating tumour cell counts are being studied as an indicator of disease course, but methods differ between laboratories and results are not directly comparable. International oncology guidelines do not currently recommend basing treatment decisions on this result. The benefit of Oncotrail for follow-up monitoring has not yet been confirmed in clinical guidelines either.

The test and preparation

The sample is venous blood, and collection takes a few minutes. Because the test is tailored to the tumour type, bring your medical records, particularly the histopathology report. Agree the timing of blood collection relative to surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy with your oncologist.

What your results mean

• Tumour cells found or an increase in their number may suggest disease activity but do not prove spread or recurrence. The oncologist interprets the result alongside imaging, tumour markers and examination.
• No cells found or few cells found, which does not mean there is no disease. Continue standard check-ups according to your oncologist’s plan.
• Immunophenotype describes the characteristics of the cells found. Its significance for treatment selection has not been confirmed by standard guidelines.

Only an oncologist makes treatment decisions, based on all findings. Do not change or stop treatment on the basis of this test.

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. State the tumour type so that the appropriate test version can be selected. Prices for all tests and panels are listed in the price list.

Frequently asked questions

Can Oncotrail detect cancer in a healthy person?

No. The test is intended for people with an established diagnosis and is tailored to the known tumour type.

Does Oncotrail replace CT, PET or tumour markers?

No. Disease monitoring is based on examination, imaging and, for some tumours, tumour markers, according to the oncologist’s plan.

How does it differ from the other oncology tests available?

Each test has a different scope. Descriptions of Oncotrace, Oncocount, Metastat and Onconomics can be found on their pages; discuss with your oncologist which, if any, is appropriate for you.

Should the test be repeated?

Decide this with your oncologist. The benefit of repeating the test for monitoring has not been confirmed, and a repeat result does not replace standard check-ups.