Experts warn against testing for "oncoproteins"

Recently, information on so-called "oncoprotein" tests, presented as a tool for the early detection of cancer or monitoring the effectiveness of oncological treatment, has become increasingly frequent in the public space. In response to these reports, the Polish Society of Oncology (PTO) and the Polish Society of Clinical Oncology (PTOK) have published a joint position paper, in which they unequivocally indicate that there is no scientific basis for using such tests in clinical practice.

As experts point out, the available publications on the determination of selected elements or their disorders in the context of cancer are single observations, often based on small groups of patients. These studies do not have adequate control groups or confirmation in prospective clinical trials. Consequently, they cannot form the basis for making diagnostic or prognostic recommendations or monitoring the effectiveness of cancer treatment.

Scientific societies emphasize that there is no scientific evidence that tests of so-called "oncoproteins" enable early detection of cancer in asymptomatic individuals, and they have not been shown to be useful in assessing disease progression, response to treatment or risk of cancer recurrence in oncology patients. The lack of standardization of testing methods and unambiguous reference standards also prevents reliable interpretation of the results obtained. Meanwhile, false-positive results can lead to unnecessary anxiety for patients and the initiation of further, often unnecessary diagnostic procedures. False-negative results, on the other hand, can give a false sense of security or false hope, which can negatively affect therapeutic decisions.

The PTO and PTOK also remind us that currently no Polish or international scientific society recommends "oncoprotein" testing either for cancer prevention or as part of diagnostics or monitoring of oncological treatment. There is a lack of evidence that doing so improves patient prognosis or the quality of oncology care.

Experts point out that cancer diagnosis and monitoring should be based only on methods of proven efficacy, in accordance with current scientific guidelines. Any additional tests in oncology patients should be ordered individually by the treating physician and interpreted in the context of the full clinical picture.

In conclusion, the authors of the post urge patients to be wary of studies and offers that are not supported by sound scientific research, and to discuss any diagnostic concerns with their treating medical team.

Source: PTOK/PTO