The Oncomine™ Precision Assay Liquid Biopsy

June 2023
Ampath | ampath.co.za

Introduction

Ampath now offers the Oncomine™ Precision Assay Liquid Biopsy (LBPA), a cutting-edge test for comprehensive analysis of solid tumour malignancies using cell-free DNA from blood samples.

Platform:

• Performed on the Ion Torrent Genexus system
• Detects the same variants and fusions as the tissue-based OPANGS (Oncomine™ Precision Assay – FFPE)

This test complements, but does not replace, the existing EGFR T790M liquid biopsy (LBEGFR).

Comparison: LBPA vs LBEGFR

✅ Oncomine™ Precision Assay Liquid Biopsy (LBPA)

• Mnemonic: LBPA
• Specimen: Blood (cell-free DNA, 10 mL)
• Container: Streck tube (camouflage-top glass)
• Transport: Room temperature to NRL ASAP
• Turnaround: ~10 working days
• Price (2023): R16,034.20
• Indications:
  • Applicable to all patients with histologically confirmed malignancy
  • Used to identify treatable or treatment-resistant mutations

✅ EGFR T790M Liquid Biopsy (LBEGFR)

• Mnemonic: LBEGFR
• Specimen: Blood (cell-free DNA, 10 mL)
• Container: Streck tube
• Transport: Room temperature to NRL ASAP
• Turnaround: ~10 working days
• Price (2023): R6,527.80
• Indications:
  • Used in non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC)
  • Detects the EGFR T790M mutation, which is associated with resistance to treatment

Prices valid for upfront payment only, through 31 December 2023. Medical aid rates may vary.

Advantages of Liquid Biopsy

• Minimally invasive
• Enables monitoring of tumour evolution
• Can detect resistance mutations like EGFR T790M
• Allows repeated testing over time
• May reduce overall costs compared to tissue biopsy (no surgery, anaesthesia, hospitalisation, etc.)
• Offers insight into intra-tumour genetic heterogeneity

Additional Advantages of LBPA

• Higher sensitivity:
  • EGFR mutations detectable at 0.05% frequency (vs 5% with T790M testing)
• Broad panel testing:
  • Covers 50 DNA/RNA genes
  • Detects additional targetable and resistance mutations
• Fusion detection (via RNA panel):
  • Identifies rearrangements in:
    • ALK
    • ROS
    • RET
    • MET
    • NTRK

📌 Note: Liquid biopsy is a complementary test, not a replacement for histological diagnosis. Tissue remains the gold standard for initial diagnosis.

📧 For more information, contact the NGS Laboratory at:
ngs@ampath.co.za

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