Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation analysis by probe-based assay (e.g., liquid biopsy)
This test checks for specific genetic changes in a sample of your blood or other body fluid that may help determine if a certain type of cancer treatment could be effective for you.
["Helps guide personalized cancer treatment options based on genetic mutations in your cells."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 61405-7
- Short code
- S epidermidis DNA Spec Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- S epidermidis DNA Spec Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is This Test Measuring?
The test looks for mutations in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), a protein involved in cell growth and division. These mutations can sometimes indicate that certain targeted cancer therapies might be more effective for your condition.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have certain types of lung cancer, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), or other cancers where EGFR mutations are known to play a role in treatment response.
How Is the Sample Collected?
A small sample of blood, saliva, or another body fluid (like pleural fluid) is collected and sent to a lab for analysis. The test uses a specialized probe to detect specific genetic changes in the EGFR gene.
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result means the test found the EGFR mutations in your sample. This may suggest that certain targeted therapies could be beneficial, but further discussion with your doctor is needed to explore treatment options.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: EGFR mutations are associated with certain cancers, particularly non-small cell lung cancer. Identifying these mutations can help determine if a patient is a candidate for specific EGFR-targeted therapies, which may improve treatment outcomes by more precisely targeting cancer cells while minimizing side effects on healthy cells.
Short name
EGFR Mutation Test (Liquid Biopsy)
Frequently asked questions
Will this test affect my insurance coverage?
How long will it take to get my results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy