Precision Oncology
Precision oncology: two people, one scan, two different diseases.
At the molecular level, Cancers that look alike can be driven by completely different changes. Precision oncology uses genomic testing to understand what is driving your Cancer, so treatment can be aimed at it directly. I practise this as the foundation of my care, not an add-on.
NGS · Liquid biopsy · MRDGenomic testing built into routine treatment planning.
What precision oncology covers
Reading the biology of your Cancer
Comprehensive Genomic Profiling
Genetic and molecular testing of the tumour to find the specific mutations driving it, and whether specialised treatment pathways or clinical trials should be considered.
Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)
A single comprehensive test that examines large sections of the tumour’s DNA, finding actionable mutations and resistance markers that standard testing can miss.
Liquid Biopsy (ctDNA)
A blood test that detects fragments of tumour DNA in the bloodstream. It is useful when a tissue biopsy is difficult, and for tracking response and early signs of recurrence.
Hereditary Cancer Programmes
BRCA testing, Lynch syndrome screening and other inherited syndromes, with risk assessment and counselling for you and your family.
Treatment Monitoring & MRD
Response assessment, minimal residual disease (MRD) detection and early recurrence monitoring, often before any change is visible on a scan.
Molecular-Report Interpretation
A genomic report is only as useful as its interpretation. I review results in a multidisciplinary framework and translate them into a practical plan.
Why it matters
A treatment aimed at the disease, or one aimed at your disease
By reading the tumour’s biology through genomic profiling, NGS and liquid biopsy, precision oncology helps identify which treatments are likely to help, which may offer limited benefit, and when a change of approach is worth considering. It does not guarantee a particular outcome, but it makes each decision better informed.
Common questions
Precision oncology FAQs
Do I need genomic testing?
It depends on your Cancer type, stage and situation. For some Cancers it is a routine part of planning first-line treatment; for others it becomes useful if the Cancer is advanced, rare, or has not responded as expected. I will explain whether it applies to you.
What is the difference between NGS and a single-gene test?
A single-gene test looks for one specific change. Next-generation sequencing reads many genes at once, which can reveal mutations and resistance markers a targeted test would not look for, useful in complex or advanced Cancers.
Is a liquid biopsy a replacement for a tissue biopsy?
Not usually. A tissue biopsy remains the standard for diagnosis. A liquid biopsy is an additional tool, helpful when repeat tissue sampling is difficult or risky, and for monitoring the Cancer over time.
Will genomic testing tell me my prognosis?
Genomic testing is about guiding treatment, not predicting an outcome. It can show which targeted options are available and how the Cancer may behave, but many other factors affect prognosis. I will discuss what the results mean for your plan.
Where is the testing done and how long does it take?
Testing is arranged through accredited laboratories. Turnaround varies by test, typically one to three weeks. I will explain the timeline and how it fits with starting or adjusting treatment.
This page is general information and is not medical advice for your situation. Whether any test or treatment is appropriate depends on a full clinical assessment. Medically reviewed by Dr Sneha Kommineni.
Ask whether genomic testing fits your treatment plan
If you have queries on whether genomic testing fits your treatment plan, I am happy to help. Discuss your diagnosis and reports with me and I will advise.
Contact Spashta Healthcare · +91 99000 79030