Unilabs Switzerland completes its ‘one-stop-shop’ for oncology diagnostics

Unilabs Switzerland completes its ‘one-stop-shop’ for oncology diagnostics 

In December 2025, Unilabs Switzerland took a major step forward in precision oncology by introducing a leading liquid biopsy assay to its genetics laboratory in Lausanne. This innovative molecular test strengthens Unilabs’ position as a leader in personalised cancer care and reflects its ongoing commitment to patient-centric innovation in oncology diagnostics. 

To explore the significance of this advancement, we spoke with Group Head of Genetics at Unilabs, Dr Nicolas Stephanou, PhD MBA, who shared insights into how liquid biopsy is transforming cancer diagnosis and treatment monitoring. 

Liquid biopsy: a new era in cancer diagnostics 

Liquid biopsy is a minimally invasive molecular test, typically performed on a simple blood sample, that detects and analyses tumour-derived material circulating in the bloodstream. Instead of removing tissue directly from the tumour, liquid biopsy focuses on circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA), small DNA fragments shed by cancer cells into the blood. 

Dr Stephanou says by analysing genetic alterations in ctDNA, such as mutations or gene fusions, clinicians gain real-time insight into the molecular profile of a patient’s cancer.  “This approach enables more dynamic and responsive clinical decision-making than traditional tissue biopsies. By detecting circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) in the bloodstream, clinicians can identify cancer recurrence earlier, often before it appears on imaging, allowing treatment to be initiated or adjusted promptly.” 

He stresses that liquid biopsy is a complement to traditional tissue biopsy, not a replacement. “Molecular testing on tissue biopsy combined with histological classification remains the gold standard for initial cancer diagnosis and tumour biology characterisation. Liquid biopsy is designed to be a powerful complementary tool, offering molecular information where tissue is limited, or when dynamic monitoring is required.” 

Clinical and patient-centred benefits 

Liquid biopsy requires only a simple blood draw, making it safer and more comfortable for patients, particularly those who are frail or whose tumours are difficult to access surgically. Because the procedure is non-invasive, it can be repeated through serial sampling, allowing clinicians to monitor disease progression and treatment response in real time. In addition, liquid biopsy provides a more comprehensive view of the cancer by capturing genetic material from both the primary tumour and metastatic sites, offering insight into tumour heterogeneity. Dr Stephanou says the liquid biopsy assay also supports faster clinical decision-making. “Liquid biopsy has a turnaround time of approximately 10 days compared to three to four weeks for traditional tissue biopsies, enabling more dynamic and responsive clinical decision-making." 

A leader in advanced cancer diagnostics 

The launch of liquid biopsy enhances Unilabs’ oncogenetics portfolio, which includes tissue-based comprehensive genomic profiling (somatic) for therapy selection and prognosis; hereditary (germline) cancer testing for risk management and family counselling; and now liquid biopsy for real-time treatment monitoring and early recurrence detection. “Unilabs’ comprehensive oncogenetics portfolio and flexible testing strategy ensures that every patient, regardless of their cancer type or stage, receives the most complete molecular diagnosis possible, maximising their opportunities for precision treatment,” says Dr Stephanou. LinkedIn 

Specialist collaboration for precision oncology 

He says, to deliver an integrated diagnostic service, Unilabs’ geneticists work in close collaboration with pathologists, who provide essential histological context and ensure the quality of tumour samples. “This multidisciplinary partnership results in a unified report that brings together morphology and molecular genetics, equipping oncologists and tumour boards with clear, comprehensive information to support well-informed clinical decisions, effective patient management, and optimal therapy pathways.” 

By translating complex genomic data from oncogenetic testing into insights that support accurate diagnosis, guide the selection of targeted therapies, and asses inherited cancer risk, Unilabs’ geneticists play a critical role delivering the best possible outcomes for patients.