Tumour samples from patients diagnosed with high-grade ovarian cancer that are eligible for first line PARP inhibitor treatment (e.g. Olaparib) should undergo reflex tumour testing to establish homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) status (Test M2.5).
There is no need for additional patient consent to be gained prior to testing (note that separate consent is required for whole genome sequencing as detailed on our WGS pages).
Reflex tumour testing aligns with the national genomic test directory and British Gynaecological Cancer Society and British Association of Gynaecological Pathologists consensus documents (opens in a new tab) based on consultation with patients.
This pathway aims streamline the return of molecular results to clinical teams to improve the number of patients accessing timely and appropriate treatment.
Local and regional MDTs are asked to consider implementing reflex tumour HRD testing for patients with a clinical/radiological diagnosis of stage III/IV high grade ovarian carcinoma where suitable formalin fixed paraffin embedded material is available.
Testing for patients in the East can be accessed through East Genomics using our standard solid cancer referral form, which has recently been updated with details on sample requirements for HRD testing.