Abstract: Multiple tumor makers are needed to improve the diagnostic rate of the simultaneously detection of malignant tumors through screening. Therefore, multiplex detection technology is urgently required to improve the screening efficiency. Suspension arrays are multiplex detection method based on gene microarrays. It consists of encoded microbeads, probes, targets, and report molecules are applied to analyze targets quantitatively. The microbead encoding strategy is a hotspot in suspension array research. The photonic crystal encoding mentioned in this review is a type of optical encoding that is very stable and easily decoded. Photonic suspension arrays have broad prospects in the screening and diagnosis of malignant tumors through long-term studies. This review summarizes the basic principle, classification, and characteristics of photonic suspension arrays and their application in the screening of malignant tumors.