Tumour genomics
Evaluating the genomic characteristics of a tumour to describe its biology more precisely than histology alone allows.
Precision Oncology
A molecularly informed approach to cancer care.
Precision Oncology is not a single test. It is the practice of integrating clinical, pathological, imaging and molecular information so that treatment decisions reflect the biology of an individual cancer.
Why it matters
Cancer is not one disease. Neither should its treatment be.
Two patients with the same diagnosis may have very different tumour biology. Looking beyond the name of the cancer can reveal molecular characteristics that may influence prognosis and treatment.
Biomarkers
Markers that may carry diagnostic, prognostic or predictive information, interpreted according to cancer type and context.
Molecular pathology
Immunohistochemistry and molecular studies read together with morphology.
Clinical interpretation
The step that gives molecular data meaning: what a finding implies for this patient, at this point in their illness.
Treatment strategy
Options discussed in the light of evidence, disease status, prior therapy and patient priorities.
Clinical trials
Where appropriate, whether an investigational approach may be worth exploring.
Molecular monitoring
Following molecular change over time where it is clinically informative.
How it works
From molecular data to clinical decisions.
Each layer adds context. Interpretation turns context into a plan.
Patient — The person, not only the diagnosis.
Being clear about limits
What Precision Oncology does not promise.
- Molecular testing does not always identify an actionable alteration.
- Identifying an alteration does not guarantee a response to treatment.
- Established standard treatment remains the right choice in many situations.
Related: Molecular testing, liquid biopsy and the molecular tumor board.
Advanced treatment options
When a specialist therapy pathway may be considered.
For a small number of patients, standard treatment is not the whole picture. Advanced therapy pathways require their own eligibility assessment and are never assumed.
CAR-T cell therapy
A cellular immunotherapy that may be considered for appropriately selected patients with certain relapsed or refractory hematologic malignancies. It is not a treatment for most cancers, and suitability is decided only through specialist hematology-oncology assessment.
About CAR-T cell therapyClinical trials
Some emerging approaches — including several cellular therapies — are available only within clinical trials, where eligibility criteria are strict.
Clinical trials and emerging therapiesRelated insights
Further reading from the Knowledge Centre.
- Why Precision Oncology Is Changing the Future of Cancer Treatment
Discover how precision oncology uses molecular testing and genomic profiling to personalise cancer treatment and improve clinical decision-making.
- Choosing a Precision Oncology Specialist
Looking for the best doctor for precision oncology in Gurgaon? Learn how precision oncology works, when molecular testing may help, and how Dr Amit Verma approaches personalised cancer treatment.
- The Genetics of Cancer
How acquired and inherited gene faults lead to cancer, why inheriting a cancer-related change does not mean cancer will develop, and which technologies are used to study these alterations.
A patient experience
“It was a pleasure dealing with Dr Verma. He was extremely helpful and patient, and knew his subject par excellence. I also had the opportunity to see his testing facility and meet his team.”
Preetendra Aulakh
Experiences are shared by individuals and describe their own interaction with the institute. They are not a promise or prediction of any clinical outcome, and individual results differ.
Read more patient experiences →Precision Longevity Program
by Dr AV Institute
Cancer Survivorship & Long-Term Health
Cancer care does not necessarily end when active treatment finishes. Survivorship care may address long-term treatment effects, cardiovascular and metabolic health, bone health, nutrition, function and appropriate cancer surveillance. It works alongside the follow-up arranged by the treating team.
Explore Cancer SurvivorshipNot sure which precision oncology step applies to you?
A few short questions can help you see whether molecular testing, a tumour board review or a first consultation is the natural next step.
Help Me Understand My Care PathwayNot a diagnosis. Not medical advice. Anonymous.
The precision oncology pathway
Each step, explained separately.
Testing, interpretation, review and treatment discussion are distinct steps. Not every patient needs every step.
Molecular Testing & Profiling
Which test answers which clinical question, and what each type of sample allows.
Comprehensive Genomic Profiling
Broad sequencing, its sample requirements, turnaround and limitations.
Liquid Biopsy
Blood-based testing, and where it complements rather than replaces tissue testing.
Molecular Report Interpretation
Reading an existing report in the context of diagnosis and treatment history.
Molecular Tumor Board
Multidisciplinary discussion of complex findings before decisions are made.
Cancer Genetics & Family Risk
Inherited risk, germline versus tumour testing and implications for relatives.
Discuss whether a molecularly informed approach fits your situation.
Consultations and second opinions are available in person and remotely.