What biomarker results do and do not say
A biomarker result shows a tumor feature that can influence which treatment categories are discussed. It does not establish the final diagnosis, choose a regimen, or guarantee treatment success.
Updated 2026-09-11. For: Patients and families who have just received a molecular marker report
This is not news and not a medical review
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What a biomarker result says
A biomarker result shows whether the tumor has a feature that can open or close treatment categories for discussion. It guides conversation; it does not make the treatment decision.
What a biomarker result does not say
A positive result does not mean a specific therapy will work, and a negative result does not always mean there are no options. The final diagnosis remains based on pathology and physician assessment.
- It does not choose the dose or regimen.
- It does not guarantee response or outcome.
- It does not replace the doctor's assessment of the whole condition.
Penjelasan visual
The EGFR journey after targeted therapy stops working
The sequence usually discussed when EGFR-targeted therapy no longer controls the disease. It covers tests and questions, not drug recommendations.
This diagram explains the sequence of assessment and discussion. It is not treatment advice or an eligibility decision.
An EGFR alteration is found
Recorded in the molecular report, not only in its conclusion.
Targeted therapy is given
Including the start date, dose, and reason for changing treatment when relevant.
The disease progresses
Assessed from imaging and the clinical condition by the treating doctor.
Possible resistance mechanisms
For example C797S, MET, or another alteration that may be found on repeat testing.
Repeat testing or NGS
Determines which changes are actually present in this case.
Discuss the next step
Reviewed with the doctor according to the patient's condition and available options.
When targeted therapy stops working, it does not automatically mean there are no further options to discuss.
Why the method matters
The same result can mean different things depending on the test method and cancer type. A useful report states the method, laboratory, and test date.
Note about this explainer
This is a standing explainer for understanding a term, not news and not an assessment of one case.
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