Oncocount: Monitor Tumor Treatment Response

Assess the cancer treatment response

The Oncocount test measures the presence and concentration of Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs) in a patient’s blood, using the versatile flow cytometry technique. It serves as a valuable tool for monitoring treatment effectiveness and assessing the risk of cancer recurrence. 

Once cancer treatment begins, the cancer blood test Oncocount can be used as an interim monitoring test to evaluate how well a therapy is working. A higher CTC count, compared to that prior to treatment, may indicate that the current treatment is not achieving the desired results and that a change in approach may be needed. Conversely, a significant reduction in CTCs suggests that the treatment is effective. 

If the decrease in CTC numbers is less than expected, this may indicate the need for therapy adjustment or the addition of supporting treatments to optimize the overall treatment plan. 

How does the Oncocount test work?

The Oncocount test from RGCC utilizes advanced Flow cytometry and Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting (FACS) to identify and isolate Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs) from a blood sample. This precise method produces a highly purified (97–99%) and viable (99%) population of tumor cells, enabling comprehensive downstream analyses, such as molecular profiling, immunophenotyping, gene expression assays, and testing sensitivity to various therapeutic agents. 

The process involves the isolation of malignant cells using flow cytometry, through which circulating tumor cells are enumerated and immunophenotyped to assess disease progression. 

Who should get an Oncocount test?

The Oncocount test is designed for patients who have been diagnosed with cancer and wish to monitor the effectiveness of their ongoing treatment. It helps practitioners evaluate the effectiveness of the ongoing therapies. It can also be used as an early detection tool for cancer recurrence for those in remission. 

Once treatment has begun, the Oncocount test can be used as a follow-up or monitoring tool, offering valuable insights into treatment response and supporting timely adjustments to therapy if needed.