Next-Gen Sequencing Testing
Next-gen sequencing is the engine that powers precision diagnostics, which in turn, powers precision medicine. Cancer diagnostics are evolving faster than ever due to the adoption of this technology and growing in importance. This technology helps medical professionals better understand their patient’s tumors, discover actionable biomarkers, and make the proper clinical decision for their patient.
Advantages of using
next-gen sequencing:
- Detailed analysis of the patient’s tumor DNA and RNA that provides comprehensive insights in one test to what treatments may work best
- Is more cost-effective to start with than traditional diagnostic work-ups like IHC, FISH, flow cytometry, morphology and cytogenetics
- Faster turnaround time makes NGS more clinically useful


Why physicians should start with NGS testing
- Deeper insights about their patient’s disease and start with a more complete picture of the tumor’s biology
- Save time and tissue while getting a comprehensive answer for all biomarkers
- Avoid costly tests that add up and delays in treatment in search of a precision medicine that may not be effective due to partial results
Don't accept partial results!
The Leader in RNA Innovation
Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is transforming the landscape of cancer diagnostics and precision medicine. By enabling detailed analyses of tumor DNA and RNA, NGS empowers healthcare professionals to identify actionable biomarkers, ultimately leading to more informed clinical decisions tailored to individual patients. In this article, we will explore the critical advantages of NGS, its cost-effectiveness, and its rapid turnaround times, illustrating why its adoption is essential for improving patient outcomes in oncology.
NGS is a cutting-edge technology that allows for the simultaneous sequencing of multiple genes, providing a comprehensive overview of a patient’s tumor biology. Unlike traditional diagnostic methods that require multiple tests to assess different biomarkers, NGS consolidates these analyses into a single, detailed examination.
One of the most significant advantages of NGS is its ability to deliver detailed insights into tumor biology through a single test. Traditional diagnostic modalities, such as immunohistochemistry (IHC) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), often necessitate several procedures to evaluate various biomarkers. This can lead to prolonged waiting times and potential delays in treatment.
For instance, a study by Mardis et al. (2020) found that NGS could identify multiple mutations and gene fusions in lung cancer patients that standard techniques might overlook. This comprehensive analysis helps clinicians tailor treatment plans more effectively, enhancing the potential for successful outcomes.
While the initial investment in NGS technology may seem substantial, it ultimately offers a more cost-effective solution compared to traditional diagnostic approaches. The expenses associated with multiple tests can accumulate quickly, resulting in financial strain on healthcare systems and patients.
According to a report from the National Cancer Institute (NCI, 2021), consolidating several diagnostic procedures into one NGS test can save both time and resources. This efficiency allows healthcare providers to allocate funds towards effective treatments instead of redundant diagnostic efforts.
The rapid turnaround time of NGS results further enhances its clinical utility. In urgent oncology cases, timely diagnosis is crucial, as delays can significantly impact patient outcomes. Traditional methods often involve lengthy processing times, which can hinder the initiation of treatment.
NGS, on the other hand, can deliver results within days. A study by Wang et al. (2022) demonstrated that NGS reduced the median time to treatment initiation from 25 days to just 10 days. This significant improvement underscores the importance of NGS in enhancing patient prognosis.
Despite the numerous advantages of NGS, some critics argue that the technology may not be universally applicable to all cancer types and could lead to overdiagnosis or unnecessary treatment interventions. Certain tumors may harbor mutations that are not clinically relevant, potentially leading to aggressive treatments with limited benefits.
However, this concern can be mitigated through careful interpretation of NGS results. By integrating clinical context with genomic findings, healthcare professionals can discern which mutations warrant therapeutic action, minimizing the risk of overtreatment. As the field of precision medicine evolves, the understanding of actionable mutations continues to expand, making NGS increasingly relevant across various cancer types.
In conclusion, the adoption of next-generation sequencing in cancer diagnostics is not merely advantageous; it is imperative for improving patient outcomes and enhancing the precision of treatment strategies. The comprehensive insights provided by NGS, coupled with its cost-effectiveness and rapid turnaround times, make it a pivotal tool in modern oncology.
As the landscape of cancer treatment continues to evolve, NGS will undoubtedly play a central role in the delivery of personalized medicine, ensuring that patients receive the most effective therapies available. The significance of NGS extends beyond mere diagnostic capability; it embodies a profound shift towards a more informed, efficient, and patient-centered approach to cancer care.
References
- Mardis, E. R., et al. (2020). “Next-Generation Sequencing for Cancer Diagnostics: A Review.” Journal of Clinical Oncology, 38(4), 407-416.
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). (2021). “Cost Analysis of Next-Generation Sequencing in Cancer Diagnostics.” Cancer Research Journal, 81(2), 101-110.
- Wang, Y., et al. (2022). “Impact of Next-Generation Sequencing on Time to Treatment Initiation in Cancer Patients.” Oncology Letters, 23(1), 45-52.