Patient Materials
Patient reimbursement brochure (PDF)
Frequently asked questions
Understanding the Pathwork Tissue of Origin Test
If you have a hard-to-identify cancer, your doctor may recommend the FDA-cleared Pathwork Tissue of Origin Test. The test provides information that may help your doctor identify the source of your tumor in order to determine the best treatment plan for you.
Why is it difficult to identify what kind of cancer I have?
Sometimes tumor cells can change appearance, making it difficult for doctors to know from what part of the body the tumor originated. (Your doctor may refer to this as the "primary site.") In some challenging cases, traditional tests are unable to provide this information.
Why is it important to know where the cancer began?
Cancers are named according to their primary site, regardless of where in the body they are found. For example, a kidney cancer that spreads to the lungs is still classified as a kidney cancer. National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines emphasize the importance of treating a cancer based on its origin. Knowing what kind of cancer you have enables your doctor to begin appropriate treatment as soon as possible.
What does the Pathwork Tissue of Origin Test do?
The Pathwork Tissue of Origin Test uses advanced technology to compare a molecular "fingerprint" of your tumor to those of 15 common types of cancer. This helps determine what type of tumor you most likely have.
How is the test performed?
The test is done on a small amount of tissue that is removed from the tumor during surgery or a biopsy. When your doctor orders the test, the tissue sample is sent to the Pathwork Diagnostics laboratory, where it is processed and analyzed.
Is the test accurate?
The test's accuracy has been determined in clinical studies that verified results obtained with the Pathwork Tissue of Origin Test on samples in which the tissue of origin was already known.
How is the test paid for?
For information about costs and the Pathwork Reimbursement Assistance Program, contact a counselor by calling toll-free 1.877.808.0006, Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm (Eastern Time), or e-mailing reimbursement@pathworkdx.com.