ONKOprofil – Genetic Test

ONKOprofil is a blood-based genetic test for hereditary cancer predisposition. It uses next-generation sequencing (NGS) to analyse multiple genes for variants associated with an increased risk of cancer. At Tartaczna 2 Medical Centre in Gdańsk, we offer sample collection and a review of the results with Dr Magdalena E. Korożan, a specialist in medical oncology and radiation oncology.

What does ONKOprofil test for?

The test assesses an inherited genetic predisposition. It does not diagnose cancer or rule out an existing cancer. Finding a clinically significant variant may help guide prevention, screening and further consultations for the patient and their family.

Cancer itself is not inherited, but a genetic variant that increases the risk of certain cancers can be passed down in a family. The significance of a result depends on the gene, the variant and the patient’s medical history.

ONKOprofil panel – genes and cancer predisposition

According to the current description from Novazym laboratory, the ONKOprofil panel covers 108 genes and is intended for women and men. These include BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, CHEK2 and TP53, as well as genes associated with Lynch syndrome, such as MLH1, MSH2, MSH6 and PMS2.

The panel covers predisposition to selected cancers, including:

• breast and ovarian cancer,
• prostate cancer,
• colorectal and endometrial cancer,
• pancreatic and stomach cancer,
• kidney cancer and melanoma.

The detailed gene list and the types of variants assessed are defined in the specification of the test being ordered. The number of genes alone does not determine which test is most appropriate for an individual. The panel does not cover every possible cause of cancer.

Who should consider genetic testing for cancer risk?

Discuss testing with a doctor, particularly if:

• several relatives have had the same or related types of cancer,
• cancer was diagnosed at a young age,
• one person has had multiple separate cancers or cancer in both breasts,
• a pathogenic variant associated with cancer predisposition has been identified in the family,
• you have been diagnosed with a cancer for which assessment of hereditary predisposition is recommended.

Where possible, testing within a family often starts with a relative who has had cancer. If a specific familial variant is already known, the doctor may recommend targeted testing for that variant rather than a broad panel.

How is the ONKOprofil test performed?

A venous blood sample is collected and sent to a genetics laboratory for DNA analysis. NGS allows many genes to be assessed at the same time, but the test has a defined scope and limitations. It cannot identify every possible genetic alteration.

Before testing, you should understand its scope and give informed consent. Prepare details of cancers in your family, relatives’ ages at diagnosis and any previous genetic test reports. Our reception team can confirm collection arrangements, the current price and the expected turnaround time.

Understanding your genetic test result

• A pathogenic or likely pathogenic variant may confirm a predisposition to particular cancers. It does not mean that cancer will definitely develop.
• No pathogenic variant identified does not rule out cancer risk or every hereditary predisposition. Follow-up also depends on family history and other risk factors.
• A variant of uncertain significance (VUS) means there is insufficient evidence to establish its effect on health. A VUS alone is not a reason for preventive surgery.

Discuss the report with a doctor. Genetic counselling or testing of relatives may be recommended when appropriate. Hereditary predisposition testing does not replace testing of tumour tissue when this is needed to guide treatment.

What happens after you receive the result?

The doctor can use the result alongside other clinical information to develop an individual screening and follow-up plan. In selected circumstances, options for reducing cancer risk, including preventive surgery, may also be discussed. These decisions require specialist assessment and cannot be based simply on a gene name in a report.

ONKOprofil in Gdańsk – sample collection and results review

At Tartaczna 2 Medical Centre, you can discuss your result with Dr Magdalena E. Korożan. You can also explore our genetic testing services in Gdańsk, including Cancer Screen, described on a separate page.

To arrange sample collection or a consultation, contact our reception team on +48 58 719 10 25 or at kontakt@tartaczna2.pl. Please specify ONKOprofil when booking.