WHAT IS
NGS TESTING?
Instead of one gene at a time, NGS sequences hundreds of cancer-relevant genes simultaneously from one tissue sample. You do not need to know what you are looking for in advance -- the test finds what is there.
Types of NGS Testing
| Test Type | Scope | Clinical Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Targeted Gene Panel | 50-500+ cancer-relevant genes | Standard clinical NGS; covers all established actionable alterations | FoundationOne CDx, Guardant360 CDx -- most widely used in clinical practice |
| Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) | All ~20,000 protein-coding genes | Research; some specialized academic programs | More data than currently clinically interpretable; not standard in routine care |
| Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) | Entire genome including non-coding | Research and some specialized programs | NHS Genomic Medicine Service uses this; more comprehensive than standard panels |
| RNA Sequencing | Gene expression, gene fusions | Detecting ALK, ROS1, and other fusions that DNA panels sometimes miss | Complementary to DNA-based testing for fusion detection |
Frequently Asked Questions
How CancerFax Helps
CancerFax is a specialist cancer access and patient-navigation platform. We help patients and families understand their options, organise medical records, coordinate hospital communication, and support cross-border treatment planning where appropriate.
We help collect and organise reports, scans, pathology, biomarker results, and treatment history for structured case review.
We communicate with hospitals or trial teams to assess whether a case may be suitable for further screening.
We support appointment coordination, document submission, translation, and direct communication with international departments.
For international patients, we help with practical coordination — travel planning, hospital admission guidance, and local support.
If this option is not suitable, we help explore other relevant treatments, clinical trials, or advanced care pathways.
From inquiry through to follow-up, our coordinators provide a single point of contact for the family.
CancerFax does not guarantee treatment access, eligibility, or clinical outcome. Our role is to help patients access accurate information, structured review, and appropriate specialist pathways.
Questions About NGS Testing for Your Cancer?
CancerFax helps patients understand what comprehensive genomic profiling tests for and what the results mean for their treatment options.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified oncologist before making treatment decisions.