Cancer researchers urge double-checking gene tests used in treatment decisions

More cancer patients are getting the genes in their tumors mapped to help guide their treatment. New research suggests that isn't always accurate enough, and a second test could help ferret out the culprit genes. This study found that mapping only the tumour's genome could provide misleading results and lead to treatment that's less likely to work. Comparing the two genomic sequences ensures that a mutation found in a tumour really helped fuel that cancer and isn't a harmless mutation sitting in the person's normal cells, too, explained lead researcher Dr. Victor Velculescu of Johns Hopkins University. Read more here.