Tumor testing: choosing treatment
Tumor genetic testing, often called somatic testing, looks for changes in cancer cells that may guide treatment. Samples may come from biopsy tissue or, in selected situations, blood.
Biomarker testing is broader than genetic testing: some tests examine proteins in tumor tissue rather than genes. Ask whether existing biopsy tissue could answer the treatment question.
Inherited testing: understanding risk
Germline testing looks for inherited gene changes, usually using blood or saliva. Results may affect treatment, screening or advice for relatives. The appropriate sample depends on your medical history.
A change found in a tumor is not automatically inherited. Sometimes a separate test is needed to establish that. An inherited risk result also cannot say for certain whether someone will develop cancer.
What does a result change?
Some results are actionable: they can support a care decision. Others have uncertain significance and should not, by themselves, trigger a cancer drug or a change in care.
An abnormal finding does not automatically identify an effective treatment. Ask how the result fits your diagnosis and what decision it would change before pursuing more testing.
When is genetic counseling helpful?
Your cancer type, personal history, family history or tumor results may indicate an inherited-risk assessment. Ask whether referral to a qualified genetic counselor is appropriate. Counseling can explain possible results, family implications and the choices before and after testing.
Questions to ask at your consultation
- Is this test about my tumor, inherited risk, or both?
- How could its result change my care?
- Do I need genetic counseling or confirmatory testing?
Discuss your questions
Bring existing pathology and test reports, plus known family cancer history. Discuss which results matter for treatment and whether an inherited-risk referral is appropriate.
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Related guides
Browse all patient guidesPatient information sources
- NCI: Biomarker Testing for Cancer Treatment
- NCI: Genetic Testing for Inherited Cancer Risk
- ACS: Biomarker and Tumor Marker Tests
- ACS: Genetic Testing for Cancer Risk
- ACS: What Happens During Genetic Testing for Cancer Risk?
- NCI Dictionary: Immunohistochemistry
General patient information; your medical team can explain how it applies to you.
Sources checked: 4 October 2026.
This guide provides general information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment plan. For urgent symptoms, seek medical care rather than waiting for an appointment request.