Patient education on brain and spinal cord tumors and associated genomic testing
CNS Tumors
Brain and spinal cord tumors are known as central nervous system (CNS) tumors. There are many different CNS tumor types. A clear diagnosis is essential so that you and your clinician can make informed decisions about your health.
Cells and Genes
The human body is composed of trillions of cells that make up the body’s organs and tissues. Each cell in turn contains your DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), the genetic code that is your body’s instruction manual and tells your body how to function. Over time, changes in your DNA can cause cells to malfunction. Cells may not expire as intended. New cells may grow that the body does not need, resulting in a mass or tumor.
Malignant or Benign?
When abnormal cells grow in the tissues of the brain and spinal cord, they may be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Malignant tumor cells can migrate and invade other tissues of the body whereas benign tumor cells generally do not spread.
Tests Used to Detect CNS Tumors
Tests that help examine the brain and spinal cord include cytology, imaging and biopsy. Cytology involves studying cells under a microscope to look at their structure and shape for abnormalities, which may indicate disease. A brain MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) creates detailed images of the brain, allowing doctors to diagnose a variety of neurological conditions including brain and spinal cord tumors. In a biopsy, a small tissue sample from an unusual brain lesion is surgically removed and examined by a pathologist to diagnose CNS disease.
Summit and Vantage Testing from Belay Diagnostics
Summit and Vantage are high performance tests that use proprietary technology to evaluate genes. These tests provide in-depth genomic information that identify and characterize a patient’s unique genes as well as how they interact with each other. The tests are innovations based on extensive scientific research at Johns Hopkins University, one of the world’s premier institutions for oncology.
Summit is advanced molecular testing that uses the patient’s cerebrospinal fluid to aid in the diagnosis of CNS tumors. It’s less invasive than brain biopsy. Summit is used to determine if certain genes associated with brain and spinal cord cancers are present. This is an important first step since identified genes can help guide your clinician, informing diagnosis and treatment decisions. It’s equally important to determine if genes are absent, as this may indicate a patient’s tumor is benign. Genes investigated are included in the Belay Diagnostics test report. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network has developed appropriate guidelines, therapies and clinical trials based on biopsy results and the biomarker genes in the Belay test report. Detection of genomic alterations guides your physician with respect to therapeutic decisions.
Vantage is new testing by Belay Diagnostics that also uses cerebrospinal fluid. In certain CNS tumors, it is used to determine if a specific gene named MGMT is present. If positive, this gene signals a positive prognosis and opens the door for the use of specific therapies where the patient is likely to have a better therapeutic response.
When Your Doctor Recommends Testing by Belay Diagnostics
If your doctor suspects a CNS tumor, Belay testing may be ordered. The test requires a sample of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), the clear fluid that cushions the brain and spinal cord. A CSF sample is a commonly ordered test that requires a lumbar puncture or spinal tap. The doctor will complete the test requisition and ask you to sign the informed consent form for sample release, testing and financial responsibility. Results are typically available in 7-10 business days. Your doctor will review your results with you.
Patients Should Have Access to Healthcare
Belay Diagnostics is committed to providing advanced testing to all eligible patients. While we are working to secure broad insurance coverage from major payers for our patients, we provide self-pay options for patients, discount pricing for prompt payment and tiered pricing based on income. Belay testing is a qualified medical expense and HSA (Health Savings Account) and FSA (Flexible Spending Account) apply. For test information, billing or any other questions, please contact Belay Customer Service at billing@belaydiagnostics.com or 331-320-0155.
For more information, view and download our Patient Education brochure and BelayAccess™ program card for patients.
For test results, please contact Customer Service at 330-320-0155 or contact@belaydiagnostics.com. Patient reports are available on average 7-10 business days from receipt of specimen and completed test requisition form. Reports can be sent via fax or encrypted email.
