The rapid molecular diagnostic service at The London Clinic Lung Centre integrates state-of-the-art next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology with the expertise of our world-class oncologists, molecular pathologists and bioinformaticians. We deliver rapid, precise diagnostic insights to optimise your care plan and ensure you benefit from the latest advances in lung cancer care.
Rapid molecular diagnostics
Also known as: Molecular pathology
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What are molecular diagnostics?
Molecular diagnostics at The London Clinic Lung Centre use next-generation sequencing (NGS) – a genetic testing method – to examine molecules in your DNA or RNA (the genetic code found in your cells).
NGS can sequence thousands of genes, or an entire genome, relatively quickly. This technique can be used to study the genetic make-up of lung cancer and find changes or mutations in DNA and RNA linked to the cancer.
This helps your doctor in making a diagnosis, understanding the tumour better and choosing the most effective treatments for you.
Molecular diagnostics can help us to personalise your treatment plan by detecting:
- Driver mutations – finding genetic changes (like EGFR, ALK, ROS1, and BRAF) can help our specialists choose targeted treatments
- RNA fusions – identifying gene fusions (such as ALK or RET) that affect treatment options
- Immunotherapy markers – checking for signs like PD-L1 levels or mutation burden lets us know if immunotherapy might work
- Drug resistance – detecting mutations that make treatments less effective helps us to adjust therapy
Are there any risks associated with molecular diagnostics or NGS?
There are no specific risks associated with rapid molecular diagnostics or NGS. However, there is a small chance that the sample being analysed may not be sufficient for testing. If this occurs, the biopsy, saliva or blood sample procedure may need to be repeated.
How accurate are molecular diagnostics?
Generally, molecular testing, including NGS, is a very reliable technique when performed correctly by an experienced clinician. However, no test is ever 100% accurate all the time.
Are molecular diagnostics always used for non-small cell lung cancer?
There are certain instances when molecular diagnostic testing in non-small cell lung cancer is not possible. For example, if the tissue that needs to be biopsied is not easily accessible, your consultant may try other diagnostic methods.
What to expect during molecular diagnostics
Step 1 Preparing for molecular diagnostics
The preparation needed for molecular diagnostics depends on the type of sample you are providing. Samples can be taken from your blood or from a biopsy, which is a minimally invasive technique used to collect a small tissue sample.
For lung cancer, molecular diagnostics are typically performed using tissue extracted through a biopsy. You can find out how to prepare for this procedure on our endobronchial ultrasound page.
If you’re providing a sample through a blood test, no special preparation is needed - you simply need to arrive at the clinic at your appointment time.
Step 2 During molecular diagnostics
If you’re having a blood test, a clinician will use a needle to take a sample from a vein in your arm. This usually takes only a few minutes.
If your sample is taken from tissue, it will have been collected during your biopsy procedure. In all cases, your sample is then sent to the laboratory for analysis.
Step 3 Analysis and results
In the laboratory, the sample is processed to make specific molecules more visible. A technician examines the sample under a microscope and prepares a detailed report.
Your consultant will let you know in advance how long results are expected to take. Molecular diagnostics using blood samples usually take around 10–14 days, while tissue-based molecular diagnostics typically take 7–10 days.
Once available, your consultant will discuss the results with you and explain the next steps.
Why patients choose The London Clinic Lung Centre
Our lung centre brings together a wide range of specialities and collective experience to provide a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating lung conditions. Working collaboratively, our world-class teams deliver personalised care at every stage, ensuring each patient receives the highest standard of treatment in a supportive, streamlined environment.
World-class lung treatment
Our specialists work at the forefront of modern lung diagnostics and treatments, helping deliver exceptional care for chest conditions.
Personal care, every time
Patient care is central to everything we do, with tailored treatment plans and support at every step.
Effortlessly simple
Our multidisciplinary teams work as one to provide a seamless, stress-free experience from consultation to follow-up.
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World-class consultants and advanced lung diagnostics, based in the heart of Harley Street.