Biomarkers can provide doctors with vital information to help guide them in developing individualized treatment plans for certain patients. But the only way to know if your cancer has a biomarker is to get tested. Your doctor may test for biomarkers when you undergo a biopsy to determine your type of lung cancer.1,2 If you’re not sure your tumor has been tested, or if you haven’t had a biopsy, it’s important to talk to your doctor.1
When Should You Get Tested?
You may be tested at any point in your diagnosis and treatment. For instance, your treatment team may decide to test after you have been diagnosed but before you start treatment. That way, the test may help to determine which treatment options exist for your type of tumor.
If you have already begun treatment, your original biopsy or a new sample might be tested to determine additional treatment options.
Additional tests may also be necessary in cases where patients have stopped responding to certain treatments. Talk to your doctor to find out if and when you should be tested.
