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Genetic and genomic testing

Find out the difference between genetic testing and genomic testing for ovarian cancer.

What is genetic testing?

Genetic testing looks for changes in the genes in your body that can increase your risk of developing different illnesses.

Sometimes the genes that we’ve inherited from our parents have small changes. These are known as genetic variants. If one of our genes has a variant, this can sometimes mean we have an increased risk of developing different illnesses compared to those who don't have it. Inherited genetic variants are known as germline gene variants.

What is genomic testing?

Genomic testing looks for variants within a tumour. This type of testing is called somatic testing. You might also hear it called tumour testing. Somatic variants aren’t found in the normally healthy cells of someone with cancer and can’t be inherited.

Both germline and somatic testing should be done if you have ovarian cancer.

 

Find out more

Hereditary ovarian cancer

Find out what a family history of ovarian cancer means, whether your family are at risk of developing hereditary cancer and get advice on genetic testing.

Gene variants

Learn about how gene variants can cause cancer and the different gene variants that can increase the risk of ovarian cancer.

Getting tested

Learn what the genetic test involves and possible results. Find out what you need to think about before deciding to start the testing process.

What do the results mean for me?

Find out what your results might show and what that could mean for you.

What does a positive result mean for my family?

Find out what a positive genetic test test result might mean for your family.

Homologous recombination deficiency (HRD)

Find out more about homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) and who should be offered testing.

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Homologous recombination deficiency (HRD)

Genomic testing is now available to look for homologous recombination deficiency. Anyone recently diagnosed with advanced high grade ovarian, fallopian tube or primary peritoneal cancer (stage 3 or 4) should be offered testing. This is now available in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Genetics guide

Genetic testing and hereditary ovarian cancer guide

More information about hereditary ovarian cancer, genetic testing and the impact of the results.
Rachel and Val Target Ovarian Cancer nurse advisers

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Last reviewed: November 2022

Next review: November 2025

To learn more about our review process, take a look at our information standards.