What are the primary purposes of tumor genomic testing?

• A. Predict response to radiation therapy
• B. Match targeted treatments and identify clinical trials
• C. Assess tumor size changes over time
• D. Screen for infectious agents

Answer: (B)

Tumor genomic testing is used to identify actionable genetic alterations in a cancer so that therapies can be matched to those alterations and appropriate clinical trials can be identified. By profiling the tumor’s DNA/RNA, clinicians can select targeted inhibitors designed to block the specific driver mutations and determine eligibility for trials testing agents against those alterations. This approach personalizes treatment beyond standard therapies, especially when options are limited. Predicting radiation response, measuring tumor size on imaging, or screening for infectious agents are not the primary goals of tumor genomic testing.