Chemosensitivity Testing at Hope Spring Clinic
Chemosensitivity testing at Hope Spring Clinic provides personalised cancer genetic tests for our patients, by testing tumours for sensitivity and resistance to chemotherapy treatment, along with a range of natural substances.
The leading laboratory is RGCC whose headquarters is based in Greece. RGCC extracts the malignant cells from blood samples and grow them in serum until they have a large enough sample for testing various agents to see which ones kill the most cells. We believe that knowledge is power and RGCC tests aim to provide our patients with the information they need to make informed choices about their treatment and healthcare.
1. Onconomics Plus Test The most comprehensive test is the “Onconomics Plus” test. This provides information on the sensitivity or resistance of the patient’s tumour cells to certain cancer drugs and shows options for targeted therapy or an alternative treatment method with organic substances.
The test also contains information about the development of the tumour and its potential by identifying epigenetic tumour markers relevant for the therapy, which are crucial for the correct therapeutic approach.
2. Oncotrace RGCC The Oncotrace test is used to identify a primary tumour and provide guidance about disease progression and future prognosis. During the test, a sample of blood is analysed to identify the presence and concentration of circulating tumour cells (CTCs) and their concentration. This test provides information about the presence of CTCs, their concentration and specific type (immunophenotype).
The results of the test enable us to identify the origin of a tumour where this is unknown and to provide information on the development of cancer and the prognosis.
3. Oncocount RGCC
The Oncocount test detects the presence of circulating tumour cells (CTCs) and their concentration in the blood. CTCs are a powerful biomarker, and their presence in the blood can act as an early warning sign that cancer is returning.
The test is designed as a follow-up test for patients who have cancer and are worried about the disease returning. We can use the Oncocount RGCC test to assess how effective cancer treatment is and the likelihood of cancer returning (relapse).
How many types of cancer are tested by RGCC? These tests are for all solid and blood tumour malignancies, with the exception of primary tumours of the central nervous system and the brain.
Can brain tumours also be tested with a blood sample? Unfortunately no. Due to the blood-brain barrier, tumour cells cannot enter the bloodstream. This means that we cannot obtain and isolate any tumour cells from the blood sample.
How long do test results take to process? On receipt of your sample kit, tests will be processed and the results made available within 14 working days. A follow-up consultations will be scheduled with our senior naturopath.
Will online consultations take place via Zoom, Skype or another method? A member of our team will be in touch to make the arrangements and choose the most convenient method.
