1. Confirm diagnosis and stage
The basis is pathology or histology, tumour stage and current imaging. Depending on the tumour type, additional molecular or genetic markers may be important for treatment selection.
2. Understand treatment options
Depending on the disease, surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted medicines and approved immunotherapies may be used alone or in combination. The sequence depends on the individual clinical situation.
3. Consider biomarkers and tumour biology
Modern oncology bases part of treatment selection on biological characteristics of the tumour. Which markers should be tested is tumour-specific and must be medically assessed.
4. Additional immunological questions
An immune status or serial measurements may provide additional information in selected situations. They do not replace histology or imaging and do not determine cancer treatment on their own.
5. Second opinion and clinical trials
For complex decisions, a qualified oncology second opinion can be useful. Suitable clinical trials can also be discussed with the treatment team.
Have your individual medical records reviewed
Existing reports, histology, current imaging, previous treatments and – if available – molecular findings can be reviewed together to structure the next questions for your oncologist.
Request a free individual therapy review