A revolutionary new brain tumour test is being hailed as a game changer by experts, promising to drastically cut the time patients wait for a diagnosis. Traditionally, patients have endured a wait of six to eight weeks to learn the type of brain tumour they have, a period fraught with anxiety and potentially delaying critical treatment. The new method, developed by scientists at the University of Nottingham and Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, can deliver diagnostic results in under two hours from surgery, with detailed tumour classifications available within minutes of sequencing.

This breakthrough leverages rapid genetic sequencing technology, focusing on specific DNA segments relevant to tumour diagnosis rather than sequencing the entire genome. By targeting key genetic markers, clinicians can quickly determine the tumour type, allowing for faster and more accurate treatment decisions. The test, known as ROBIN (rapid nanopore brain intraoperative classification), has already been trialled successfully in 50 surgeries, achieving a 100% success rate in accurately identifying tumour types. This immediate feedback can even assist surgical teams in real time, potentially influencing the extent of tumour removal during the operation itself.

The impact on patient care is significant. Faster diagnosis means that treatment—such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy—can commence much sooner, which may improve outcomes and reduce the emotional burden on patients and families. Previously, delays in diagnosis sometimes led to situations where patients required additional surgeries because the full tumour type was only discovered weeks after the initial operation. With over 100 different types of brain tumours, precise and timely classification is crucial for tailoring the most effective treatment plan.

Beyond speed and accuracy, the new test also offers cost benefits. By eliminating the need for multiple separate genetic tests, it reduces overall diagnostic expenses, with estimates suggesting the cost could be around £450 per person and potentially lower with wider adoption. The technology is now being considered for rollout across NHS Trusts in the UK, with experts optimistic about its potential to transform brain tumour care for thousands of patients annually.