Oncotrace

According to the test description, Oncotrace measures the number of circulating tumour cells in the blood and their characteristics (immunophenotype). Circulating tumour cells are carcinoma cells that have detached from a tumour and entered the bloodstream. The test is intended for people with an already diagnosed carcinoma, the report provides additional information with no recognised role in treatment decisions, and decisions are made by the oncologist.

Who is this test for

• adults with an already diagnosed carcinoma;
• patients discussing additional information alongside standard disease monitoring with their oncologist;
• people whose doctor has suggested the test or who want to consider it together with their doctor;
• 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 biopsy, imaging tests or tumour markers requested by the oncologist.

What the test reveals

According to the test description, Oncotrace provides information on the presence of circulating carcinoma cells, their concentration and immunophenotype, meaning the proteins on the cell surface. The description states that the test may help identify the origin of those cells and that it is offered for all types of malignant disease.

It is also important to know the limitations. Measuring circulating tumour cells is not currently part of routine use and is not included in standard guidelines for monitoring or treatment selection. There is insufficient evidence for the claim that an immunophenotype from blood reliably identifies a tumour’s origin. The type and origin of a tumour are established through tissue analysis (biopsy) and imaging tests.

If you are interested only in the cell count, the description states that this information is provided by Oncocount. The test with markers tailored to a particular carcinoma type, such as breast or prostate carcinoma, is Oncotrail.

The test and preparation

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 results mean

The report is interpreted by the oncologist alongside an examination, imaging tests and tissue findings. 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 and imaging tests.
• Cell immunophenotype described: this is research information that does not confirm the type or origin of the tumour and does not determine medicine selection.

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

Can Oncotrace show where a tumour originated?

No. The origin and type of a tumour are established through tissue analysis and imaging tests. It has not been confirmed that the immunophenotype of blood cells reliably shows a tumour’s origin.

What is the difference between Oncotrace, Oncocount and Oncotrail?

According to the descriptions, Oncocount determines only the cell count, Oncotrace the count and characteristics, and Oncotrail the characteristics relevant to a particular type of cancer. None of these tests is part of standard guidelines.

Can the test detect cancer in a healthy person?

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

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.