Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to frequently asked questions about the Oncotype DX® test.
The Oncotype DX test is a colon cancer test that looks at the activity of 12 genes within a person’s tumor sample in order to provide an individual probability of the likelihood of colon cancer returning in people with early-stage colon cancer whose tumor is lymph-node-negative. For additional information about the Oncotype DX test, click here.
Men and women with newly diagnosed stage II colon cancer may be eligible. For more information, click here.
RNA, part of the makeup of your cells, is extracted from the tumor sample and then analyzed to determine the level of activity or expression of each of 12 genes. The results of the analysis are then put into a mathematical equation to convert those measures into the Recurrence Score® result.
This result corresponds to the likelihood of colon cancer returning within 3 years of initial diagnosis (recurrence) among individuals with early stage II colon cancer who have undergone surgery to remove the primary tumor.
Patients who have the Oncotype DX test performed receive a report with a number called a Recurrence Score result. The Recurrence Score result is a number calculated from expression levels of 12 genes within that patient’s tumor— 7 cancer-related genes and 5 control genes. A Recurrence Score result can, along with other information, help patients and doctors determine a patient’s risk of recurrence and may also shed some light on the chance that the cancer will come back in the future.
Will my insurance cover it?
Genomic Health has a program called the Genomic Access Program (GAP) that can help you verify whether or not your insurance covers the test and, if so, can help you obtain reimbursement. Genomic Health also has a financial assistance program for those patients that qualify based on financial eligibility. For more information, visit our Insurance Information section.
The Oncotype DX test is performed on tissue removed during your initial surgery (resection). Like any laboratory test, the Oncotype DX test must be ordered by an authorized healthcare provider such as your surgeon or oncologist. For more information on getting tested, including information regarding talking to your doctor about the Oncotype DX test, click here.
Most results are available within 7 to 10 days from the date the tumor sample is received by Genomic Health. Results will be sent to the doctor treating you and the pathologist who submitted the sample.
For more information about Genomic Health, the company behind the Oncotype DX test, visit GenomicHealth.com
For a list of scientific publications regarding the Oncotype DX test, visit our Scientific Publications section.