NHS pilots rapid genomic test to transform brain tumour diagnosis

Thousands of people with suspected brain tumours could receive a diagnosis much sooner under a new NHS pilot using rapid genomic testing

The technology, being introduced across specialist centres in England, can identify the genetic characteristics of a brain tumour within days rather than the weeks that patients may currently wait for a definitive diagnosis. In some cases, results can be available while surgery is still taking place.

How the rapid test works

The new test analyses the DNA, or genetic code, of a small tumour sample taken during a biopsy or surgery. By examining the tumour’s genetic information, specialists can determine what type of brain tumour a patient has and provide a more precise diagnosis.

The test has already been successfully piloted in Nottingham and Birmingham. During a recent operation at Nottingham University Hospitals, staff analysed a tumour sample while surgery was ongoing.

The sequencing process took around 20 minutes, and the initial result was provided to the surgical team in less than two hours after the sample reached the laboratory. Further testing can then provide a more detailed molecular diagnosis within days.

Helping surgeons make decisions during operations

One of the most significant potential benefits is providing surgeons with genetic information during an operation.

Brain tumours can vary considerably in how they grow and respond to treatment. Knowing the likely tumour type during surgery could help surgeons decide how much tissue they can safely remove while protecting healthy areas of the brain.

The technology could therefore support more personalised surgical decisions and reduce the need to wait for conventional laboratory analysis before determining the most appropriate approach.

Faster treatment and access to clinical trials

A quicker diagnosis could also allow patients to begin appropriate treatment sooner. Depending on the type and grade of tumour, treatment may include surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy.

Rapid results could also help patients access clinical trials earlier. Some trials require detailed information about a tumour’s genetic characteristics before a person can be considered for participation.

There are more than 100 different types of brain tumour, ranging from slow-growing tumours to aggressive cancers. Because these tumours can behave differently and respond differently to treatment, identifying the precise type is an important part of planning care.

Expansion across England

NHS England is investing more than £2 million over two years in the Brain Cancer NHS Genomic Network of Excellence.

The first phase of the programme will introduce rapid testing at five specialist centres: University Hospitals Birmingham, Nottingham University Hospitals, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, King’s College Hospital and Newcastle Hospitals.

Genomic laboratory sites in Bristol, Oxford, Leeds and Manchester are expected to join during the second phase.

The programme brings together neurosurgery, pathology and genomic medicine teams to develop a consistent approach and gather evidence on how to use the technology safely and effectively.

A potential new standard for brain tumour diagnosis

Around 13,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with a primary brain tumour each year. The NHS hopes the pilot will demonstrate whether rapid genomic testing can become part of routine care.

If successful, the technology could significantly reduce the wait for a definitive diagnosis and give doctors access to more detailed information earlier.

The initiative forms part of the National Cancer Plan for England, which aims to accelerate the adoption of medical innovation, expand access to genomic testing and support earlier diagnosis and treatment for cancer patients.